The past will never turn the future loose.
The heart may say forgive and then forget
but mind will hide the shadow of abuse
awaiting wheel of fate in doubt's roulette.

The present only looks to be the now.
The hand may seize the opportunity
but head will mask the less demanding how
bewildering with seeming unity.

The future always moving slips to past.
The foot may seek unshakeable new ground
but brain will cover changes coming fast
assuring toeholds from which hopes rebound.

One cannot love the dreamer all agleam
without believing in the dreamer's dream.

- Robert Stone, 6 September 2011