Two creatures, each on his life-changing trip,

But such diversity in our belongings!

My car is packed, my heart’s weighed down with longings

For friends I’ve left (and goods I’ve had to ship).

But you, who once did creep upon the earth,

And now float by with splendid flutterings,

Take nothing with you but your royal wings—

For God made you a king by second birth.

What metamorphosis enables me

To look with awe upon your autumn flight,

When all my youth I was too blind to see

How clearly you display your Maker’s might?

    The worm of pride consumed me from life’s start,

    Till bright-winged faith first fluttered in my heart.