Classic Poem

O, cleave not to the things of earth,
For they must pass away;
But for the better, heavenly birth,
With earnest longings pray.

Is it a time to lust for gain,
To dig for golden ore;
Or to relieve disease and pain,
From out thine ample store?

Is it a time thy wealth to spend
On garments rich and rare,
And naught of it to others lend,
Who've not a robe to wear?

Is it a time thy house to build,
In grandeur all alone;
With every costly luxury filled,
When many a man hath none?

Is it a time for thee to live
For self, to earth confined;
And not a thought to others give,
Or to the immortal mind?

Oh, cleave not to the things of earth,
For they must pass away;
But for the better, heavenly birth,
With earnest longings pray.