I
If I were to consider the world’s best offer
And examine the mounds, one after the other
The richest attire and the finest gold rings
All objects of envy of peasants and kings
Yet, in the darkness, away from the glitter
Fineries so often lose much of their luster
II
The mansion of splendor, staged, high on the hill
All eyes in the valley, gazed longingly still
But when the mind’s quiet, a thought may arise
These things are much better in two people’s eyes
For as the time passes, a late change will occur
Instead of a palace, mere walls and a blur
III
A body made for leisure, all flavours to sip
The sensual delights, not one to be skipped
All fanciful fare, each one to be tried
Whatever on offer, all whims satisfied
But here and hereafter, such taste fades away
Each earthly pleasure has a definable day
IV
There are better offers on this side of Bliss
Justice and Compassion, must top the list
Honesty and Respect and Truth is the goal
Kindness and Faithfulness may complete the whole
Yet, there is Love, Gratitude and Trust
Though the world functions on little but lust
V
These sterling values will endure beyond time
And with each generation the need will just climb
Yes, the world regards them as the talents of the fool
But, what would we be, without these teachers and rule?
There are many treasures, so greatly amassed
But Faith, Truth and Justice cannot be surpassed