Everything has its wonders, even darkness and silence, and I learn, whatever state I may be in, therein to be content.

–Helen Keller

Time stays only long enough for those who use it.

–Leonardo da Vinci

 Penelope and Her Suitors by John William Waterhouse

 

            Aspen

 

Thine hair lies on the pillow,

and the creases of thy brow

do denounce the pangs of Dante’s fury:

hunger’s hollow eyes, a snare, to chore

the emerald mother’s crown.  

Who doth love thee most—

who speaks to you in figurative verse,

heed the warning of their timely glance,

eat kindly at their table.

 

Who does bind thy covenant, true:

place thine hands in his favor,

rest thine head upon his pillow.

 

            --Emily Isaacson