“It’s an old story . . .”

(Found here)

It’s an old story,

it’s like this—

You spend a day and you have it.

You feel there is a storm waiting

       above every storm,

And a silent heart

       in every heart,

And your way is a river, deepening;

And each night has many undelivered stars.

You become a listener;

You can’t lose what you give away;

And you live each day for keeps.

                                                        Fredonyer Pass, California

                                                        May 29, 1944

~William Stafford