Smooth and Steadfast Minds

Dakota Zoo, Bismarck, North Dakota
May 2007

He that loves a rosy cheek,
Or a coral lip admires,
Or from starlike eyes doth seek
Fuel to maintain his fires;
As old Time makes these decay,
So his flames must waste away.

But a smooth and steadfast mind,
Gentle thoughts and calm desires,
Hearts with equal love combined,
Kindle never-dying fires.
Where these are not, I despise
Lovely cheeks, or lips, or eyes. . . . .


He That Loves A Rosy Cheek
Thomas Carew
1594-1640