How many a thing which we cast to the ground, <br />When others pick it up becomes a gem! <br />We grasp at all the wealth it is to them; <br />And by reflected light its worth is found. <br />Yet for us still 'tis nothing! and that zeal <br />Of false appreciation quickly fades. <br />This truth is little known to human shades, <br />How rare from their own instinct 'tis to feel! <br />They waste the soul with spurious desire, <br />That is not the ripe flame upon the bough. <br />We two have taken up a lifeless vow <br />To rob a living passion: dust for fire! <br />Madam is grave, and eyes the clock that tells <br />Approaching midnight. We have struck despair <br />Into two hearts. O, look we like a pair <br />Who for fresh nuptials joyfully yield all else?<br /><br />George Meredith<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/modern-love-xli-how-many-a-thing/
