Elusive Fountain

I searched all my life for the fountain of youth
So, young evermore, I’d remain.
But, although I labored, elusive it was.
I found that my search was in vain.

The fountain I thought would yield wisdom and gold.
Only strands of silver I’ve found.
I am much wiser now than in younger days;
This knowledge to me is profound.

Our lives have ways of taking over control
When moving along with swift pace.
My youth was soon spent; I wakened to find
Middle age had taken its place.

A happiness greater than all I had seen;
Rare jewels to add to my wealth
Were waiting for me in the fountain for sure.
I never thought once of my health.

Soon the middle age years passed quickly behind,
I’m old by the standards of most.
That great fountain I sought, with some retrospect,
Has yielded things I thought were lost.

Now, happiness is seeing my family.
Wealth is measured by something more
Than simply by treasures laid up in a bank.
My health, I would love to restore.

While looking for treasures to make my life full,
I sought to remain ever young.
But, I would have missed many important things.
Many songs would yet be unsung.

Relenting the search for the fountain of youth
I lived every day with such zest
Seeking treasures that wove the threads that became
Golden quilts of days at their best.

I found riches untold, possessions so great
That Midas would envy, I’m sure.
Happiness not measured in ounces of gold,
Once to me might have been obscure.

And, when I’m laid to rest, you can be assured
For me, there will be no regret.
A fountain of youth will be waiting for me
When I cross death’s threshold, I’d bet.


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