I was walking, pensive, in snow and cold
When it struck me to observe my imprint.
I craved to see where my footstep would hold,
And how the sun would give the mark a glint.

I had work that needed to be done soon;
I had people expecting my presence.
I hurried far too greatly to slow my tune.
There was time enough to learn my lesson:

As fiery as it can be, this need,
Though the fever may hold you in its jaws,
Do not let yourself be daunted, take heed:
You can make more marks if you do not pause.

Change is brought by those who fight against fire,
And not by those who stop to self-admire.