The Poetry Corner

The Fountain Of Youth

By Michael Earls

(For Osceola and Pocahontas) Was it a hundred years ago, Or was it but yesterday, When we found the roads that grow Blossom and song of May? Maybe it was but yesterday, Or a hundred years ago. The roads from Bersabee to Dan Are old and quickly tire, But to the heart of child or man Youth is a fairy fire: Our youthful roads, they never tire From Bersabee to Dan. Ponce de Leon found no spring, But legend's long, long ruth; But the grace of God is a magic thing Abides with chivalrous youth: The grace of God that brings no ruth For them who find the spring. There is a land, there is a May Beyond the graveyard tree; Ten thousand years are like a day Of a youth that we shall see: Our young hearts pass the graveyard tree To a land forever in May.