As one who walks two dogs when one dog balks
And lags behind to seek enticing scents,
The other pulling forward as she stalks
Her feline quarry, such is the suspense

Of living with one foot firmly on earth,
Accepting obligations of that life,
Though dull, because one understands the worth
Of duty when it minimizes strife-

But at such times the striving soul will see
Those who have made a living at their dreams
And disregard pernicious jealousy
Which whispers that it’s perfect as it seems.

To know no life’s protected from despair
Makes compromises easier to bear.