The Lesson

Life is not perfect.
There are no guarantees.
We don't have directions
and aren't handed keys.

There are moments of joy
and times of elation.
Days that we mark
with sweet celebration.

But not every season
is one that we cherish.
There is sickness and sadness
and loved ones who perish.

We have a choice
to dwell on unpleasant,
or to learn from it all
and apply to the present.

The sorrow and joy,
the victory and strife
each play a part
in what we call "life."

Take pride in your journey.
It's to be commended.
There is still so much more.
Don't leave hope suspended.

Today is the day
to choose the right path,
Count all your blessings.
Do the right math.

Don't focus on things
that weigh the heart down.
Don't allow your woes
to let your joy drown.

Store up your memories
of all the great things.
Keep them at the ready
for the grief that life brings.

Have joyful memories
always in your mind's eye
to gaze upon
should fear and grief happen by.

This was a lesson
I needed to learn.
Now my task at hand
is to teach you, in turn.