Arise My Son

Arise, my son and seize the day. May winds and sun make light your way To carry you each day anew. But if not so, these things I pray: • That should the dreams that you pursue Appear to slip beyond your view That you'd find faith to stay the course And keep the spark alight in you. • That if you walk uncharted shores With tired limbs and closing doors If you should feel the urge to quit Push through to find tomorrow yours. • That you'll know truth you won't forget So it may keep your pathways lit Within the night when darkness lies And shadows sell the counterfeit. • That you remain both brave and wise Yet see the world through hopeful eyes. And on your way, if you should fall Brush off what was – my son – and rise. Originally written 11/1/2021 Edited (added second stanza) 6/8/2022 For Sotto Poet's Rubaiyat Poetry Contest