<h2><SPAN name="page164"></SPAN><span class="pagenum"></span>PERFECTION</h2>
<p class="poetry">The leaf that ripens only in the sun<br/>
Is dull and shrivelled ere its race is run.<br/>
The leaf that makes a carnival of death<br/>
Must tremble first before the north wind’s breath.</p>
<p class="poetry">The life that neither grief nor burden knows<br/>
Is dwarfed in sympathy before its close.<br/>
The life that grows majestic with the years<br/>
Must taste the bitter tonic found in tears.</p>
<div style="break-after:column;"></div><br />
