Words

"Life is meant to be lived      
Not merely written about          
The most beautiful words        
Can never capture          
The softest breeze,        
A loving touch,        
The warmth of early spring sunshine,        
Evergreen freshness        
In an alpine meadow          
         
Concepts are a poor substitute          
For the experiences they encompass          
Lay down your pen    
Abandon the safety of your poet's lair        
Go out and live        
Today          
Tomorrow is only a promise          
That may or may not be fulfilled."    
   
The old man in the mirror    
Stops speaking and turns away;  
After a long moment,  
I lock the door to my cage    
And turn out the light.