The Old One

I went walking one evening
Lost within my thoughts.
Of problems in life
Are they all worth the cost?

I wandered along for awhile
Then I saw an old man.
He was sitting alone on a stump,
Looking down at his hands.

I approached him with care,
For he seemed deep in thought.
And thought I did wonder,
Disturb him I did not.

As I stood near, he  looked at me,
And I felt his wisdom surround.
His dark eyes were dancing,
As he gestured toward the ground.

"You look troubled" he spoke
With a voice that was strong
"Come and sit here beside me, 
And relate what is wrong

"Grandfather" I said 
 "Your sight is still keen.
There is confusion in my life,
Over things I have seen"

There is greed and hatred,
And other evils abound.
There is no harmony,
No peace to be found."

We sat there in silence
The old man and me.
Heads bowed and quiet
Deep in thought were we.

He then raised his hand,
And waved it about,
"You are looking out there,
for it is not from without.
But from within
Is where you will find
All that you need,
For the peace in your mind.

Feel in your heart
For your spirit is true.
And the peace that you seek,
Is already in you.

I listened to his words
For his wisdom was strong.
I looked into myself
And realized I was wrong.

For if change is to come
It must be from within.
Your own spirit must be willing
 It is with you it begins.

Copyright 2003 by Heathen
