Early on I wished to seek out famous mountains,
But the date awaited the completion of my son's and daughter's weddings.
Then, although these two events were over,
Quite aside from these, I still was of two minds.
But suddenly I heard the Dragon Chart of a new dynasty had come,
And even now I see its glorious radiance spread.
Assisting at the court, I head the Eight High Officers;
I've opened land, am paid with taxes from a thousand households.
My official capstrings never have been bathed in dew,
Nor have the wind and rain yet combed my hair;
But tinkling jades resound within the recessed palace gates,
And gold cicada pendants gleam in sunlight at dawn audiences.
I'm ashamed I have not even made a petty man's requital,
Yet, unworthy, I enjoy the highest rank.
It's not that I've forgotten all those lifetime dreams;
Just that there is no respite — no time even for regret!