Wisdom and Power

by Skinner Layne

Clamor for power, divine little youth,
Struggle for the precipice of Iv’ry air
Make your name amongst the Kings of earth,
And claim the Triumphant Golden Chair.

Whether by dagger or the sharpened sword,
Or through some darksome crevasse schemes
Embrace your destiny to rule and to reign
Lest ever it continue to haunt your dreams.

But beware of the snares of both friend and foe
Who gather in quiet to plot your demise,
To expose your secrets and midnight plans,
Insidiously awaiting to thieve your prize.

For though the sword-tip can pierce the flesh,
And all the swords be under your control,
The weapon of choice of all against you,
Is the Truth that lies deep within your soul.

Let not pretense be your companion,
Nor fear of the Truth accompany your quest,
But meet the wounding word with valor,
To secure for yourself the Regent Crest.

Yet when you reach that Pinnacle of hist’ry
Know that its achievement is not the end,
For power alone is but a wisp of cloud-strand
And such Mortal Accolade you must transcend.

Power is fleeting without wisdom,
Clasp not the Cloud, nor grasp after the wind,
Give strength to your heart with wealth and courage
Rememb’ring the lesson that all have sinned.

Then when you rest amongst the White Lillies,
And soar to your fathers who live in the sky
The masses will celebrate your life and your reign,
Yet mourn your departure in the place that you lie.

Clamor for power, divine little youth,
Refuse only those who deny your fate,
Engrave your name in the Granite of Time,
Ascend this day to your destined Estate.