The Gardener

A poem by Mary Oliver.

Have I lived enough?
Have I loved enough?
Have I considered Right Action enough, have I come to any conclusion?
Have I experienced happiness with sufficient gratitude?
Have I endured loneliness with grace?

I say this, or perhaps I'm just thinking it.
Actually, I probably think too much.


Then I step out into the garden,
where the gardener, who is said to be a simple man,
is tending his children, the roses.