The past is a strange thing, 

The looks and feels that make you ring. 

Some memories are forgotten, some blurred

Some are sacred, and can almost be heard! 

Sharp and contrast or dim and weak, 

There are pasts that were rather bleak

Hunger, sickness, bitter ends.

Loved ones lost, or betraying friends. 

The world is not great, not perfect or prim, 

There are those who stick through thick or thin.

Cherish them, keep them close and dear,

For someday, they may not be here!

Relationships gone, friends thrown away, 

But all you think is what happens today. 

If the past is not heeded like it should, 

The future can't possibly be very good.

So learn from your mistakes, your memories, your adventures.

Or else, your happiness may be surrendered! 

Heed this warning, and do this today,

Lest you find yourself in great dismay. 

(Originally written in June 2018.)