While perched upon a lily pad he sits to ponder the life it’s had.

For time is short for him you see, and soon he will no longer be.

His skin is worn with bumps and spots, his vibrant eyes have turned to dots.

His memory is almost dust, to tell his tale of life is a must.

I’ve seen the world straight through he says, more times than him and you

          he says.

One day you children will know too, when it's time for you to pass through.

One time the story I will tell, so listen now and listen well,

Though you won’t get it now, my goal is for you to before you’re old.

I tell to you the things I’ve seen, of skies so blue and grass so green,

Of happiness and peace of mind, which in this world is hard to find.

Of warmth and light that shines like gold, and bitterness that leaves you

           cold.

Of brightest nights and darkest days, things sure to leave you in a haze.

I’ve seen cattails as high as stars and water ponds the size of Mars.

I’ve hiked for miles in thunderstorms, and seen the world be broke and torn.

Of all the people I did see, some live in sorrow and some with glee,

So be careful when you choose your path, because once time’s gone you

          can’t go back.