One looks behind to some vanished time
And says, "Ah, I was happy then, alack!
I did not know it was my life's best prime--
Oh, if I could go back!"
Another looks, with eager eyes aglow,
To some glad day of joy that yet will dawn,
And sighs, "I shall be happy then, I know.
Oh, let me hurry on."
But I -- I look out on my fair Today;
I clasp it close and kiss its radiant brow.
Here with the perfect present let me stay,
For I am happy now!
