A TIME FOR REMEMBRANCES

O April's time to cast the mind back to the bygone years
When we, too bold to be afraid and yet too young for tears,
Prepared to set our courses to a new and distant land,
First steps to high adventure, and perhaps to high command.

Some sought the gold of pilot's wings, the thrill of soaring flight,
Some wished to conn great warships through the black and starless night,
Some dreamt of stormy landings on a fierce and hostile shore,
Others might plunge beneath the seas, where few had gone before.

Here, in the peaceful stillness of our parlors, far from strife,
We contemplate the wonders and the perils of that life--
Would any, had we known our fates, have turned to calmer ways?
Never, say I--such memories now warm our golden days!

RR 4-3-08