Gamaliel Bradford - Hope

When I was a little boy,
I followed hope and slighted joy.
Now my wit has larger scope,
I clutch at joy and heed not hope.

At least that doctrine I profess,
For there I know lies happiness;
But hope, for all the shifts I try,
Will be my sovereign till I die.

Gamaliel Bradford

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/hope-565/