When the end comes
and the totals and sums
are weighed and measured for value,
we wish to admire
but more often aspire
to have equaled an accomplishment or two.
But in the end
we usually send
our disappointment to the front of the line
whereupon examination
we confront in damnation
our failure to give the best of our time.
Apology and excuse
are tools we use
to rebuild a fragile sense of self;
when all it took
to have a better look
was integrity taken off the shelf.
But it's far too late
when at last our fate
has finally come to fruition.
Our schemes and plans
are really dreams, sans
potential, our hope's attrition.
So heed this warning
you ambitious and idealist yearning
to accomplish your dreams without sacrifice or grit.
For only with diligence
and patience, and consciousness
will your life have joy, peace, and success in it.