When I was a child,
I spake as a child.
Now I am grown, yet
Childish thoughts remain.

When I was a man,
I was a fool.
Now a child,
That choice is no more.

When I was a fool,
I knew many things.
Now wiser,
I know I know little.

When I knew much,
I felt strong.
Now I am weak,
Yet content in my weakness.

When I had want,
I thought only of happiness.
Now grimmer,
My wants seem petty.

When I was petty,
Things held my fancy.
Now less fancy,
I see far more.

When I had foresight,
I tripped over myself.
Now I have balance,
But only stare at my feet.

When I am a man,
I will be but a child,
Who will be foolish
Yet wise, and
Know little.

When I am a child,
I will be but a man,
Who will have foresight
But forsake it, and
Be petty.

When I am weak,
I will be content,
And trip every so often,
Yet be not grim,
For I am a man.

-Fin.

Cross-reference 1 Corinthians 13.