Jeffrey Hull

A midweek post. This was inspired by an essay in Gordon Livingston's book, Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart. The title fits me to a "T," for sure. A recommended book for seekers of happiness. The subtitle, "Thirty True Things You Need to Know Now," is apropos.

Statute of Limitations

The statute long ago expired
   On most parental perfidies
Which in our childhoods have transpired—
   In teenage years—especially these.

And time has likewise run on that
   Which happened long ago in love;
Don't perch on ancient slight or spat
   Like some offended mourning dove.

Let go of things you cannot change:
   The moving finger long since wrote.
Things done refuse to rearrange—
   Your efforts ring a sour note.

To live in some disgruntled past
   Of real or fancied former wrong
Crowds out good memories that last,
   And better in the heart belong.


© 2005 Jeffrey Hull

This is a lovely introspective ballad Jeff. I could easily put it into a blues music form.

I can't help but be reminded of the "Serenity Prayer" as well. ' God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.' That, by the way, is only the excerpt from the entire narrative. I believe it was written by Rhienhold Niehbar (sp?) There is so much to be said for accepting life on its own terms. Thanks Jeff. I needed that.

Thanks for the comment, Dan.

You meant Dr. Reinhold Niebuhr, the theologian; he is said to have written the prayer, but apparently there is some controversyabout that. Even Niebuhr wasn't sure if his version was original. No matter.