Learn what thou art when thy estate is best;
A restless Wave o' th' troubled Oce-an,
A Dream, a lifeless Picture finely drest.
A Wind, a Flower, a Vapor, and a Bubble,
A Wheel that stands not still, a trembling Reed,
A trolling Stone, dry Dust, light Chaff, and Stubble,
A shadow of something but truly naught indeed.
Learn what deceitful Toys and empty things
This World and all its best Enjoyments be;
Out of the Earth no true Contentment springs,