Uncertain until Then

Each day I am given something,

each day something is taken away

in the asymmetrical act 

of living.

             I know  the ebb and flow

of gain and loss

                         sometimes being able

to tell what has given,

taken away;

                    often, though, not 

knowing what I've gained, lost.

It's another day.

With one hand I hold a bag

of gold, with the other

a beggar's bowl

and the only word I know

comprehensive enough 

for each --  I say, "Yes."

-Byron Hoot