There is something to be said
for living life with vigor, not dread--
to get every last morsel, every drop
that drips from the fountain's top.
What is life but to be lived full,
happiness is no exception to the rule.
Why should we be cluttered with rules
that give less than a stubborn mule?
Why not take life in a thoughtful stride
determining the necessary from the unrequired?
Why cause ourselves any undo stress
making ourselves an emotional wreck?

There is something to be said
for questioning the way that's paved--
to figure out why we do those things
and why, to certain ways, we cling.
What is life but a grand university
all of us pupils, enrolled on birth's sea.
Why should we sit idle, transfixed
before a flashing screen, with messages mixed?
Why not take life by the scruffy nap
and explore places all over the map?
Why not make the best of our lot
while we still have the chance, our shot?

*Aug. 16, 2002.