For Oscar On His 11th Birthday
Remember always Invictus and God
when you stand alone before pharisees -
thus follow the path King and saint have trod
and, son, trust in your own humanities.
Prove incorruptible and heed this wise,
the rule of men are not mighty to save -
their inward ravenings crudely devise
and their only one saving is the grave.
Loved is the divine child young in his days
whose cross to carry is your crown to wear,
whose stamp of nature a quiet strength raise -
cleave to it lest your heart fail you for fear.
Live and love, and rewarded you will be,
else all that becomes you is vanity.
Written: March 2011
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