1. J.R.R. Tolkien. The Lord of the Rings. Ballantine Books, New York. Copyright 1954-1974
Meditations on Happiness
As a child I dreamed of living among the dinosaurs, like the Flintstones in fact.
My family supported this fantastic delusion of mine with oh so perfect tact.
As a child I dreamed of living in outer-space with The Jetsons and others alike.
I knew this was silly, but it was nice to dream of what the future was like.
I rather be taller, stronger and have a much deeper voice;
but I was born, as I was born and I had very little choice.
I rather be rich beyond all my desires and never have to worry;
but the stars may have other plans, that’s ok, I am not in a hurry.
As an adult I dreamed of helping make the world a better place.
My family supported this dream with a nod and a warm embrace.
As an adult I realized life is short and I dreamt of living forever.
I know this won’t happen, as I am certain- I am not that clever.
I will dismiss all these futilities and follow the path of bliss- the only true path known:
“I would rather share one lifetime with you than face all the ages of this world alone.”1
Nothing's Sacred 