"(And therefore most know better than to try)"

A Mystery Which No One Need Explain

Opportunity knocked while I was out
And might have knocked me out if I had known
By the time I heard that it was about
It had passed by and I was left alone
They say it will come back some other day
But I never wanted it anyway

If you knew what it was would you tell me
Or would you think it wiser to remain
Steadfast in silent solidarity?
A mystery which no one need explain
(And therefore most know better than to try)
I am like you part pleasure and part pain
Better but bitter as the years go by
Less permanent than I had hoped to be
A shadow-play too fragile to sustain

My friend we both know too well what we are
And nothing can be done about it but
To say a prayer or wish upon a star
The wheel turns as it will no matter what
We fall like leaves but gently and not far
So if you hear a knock go to the door
And answer it before a stranger does
It might be what we have been waiting for
Although what that would be I could not say

Opportunity knocked (I thought it was)
But I was out and thought it went away
I am glad you are with me now because
As my eyes adjust to the dark I see
The key turn silently within the lock
Could this already be that other day?

Something is coming but I hear no knock
A mystery which no one need explain

+Steven Curtis Lance



Copyright MMVII