'The Passing' By Charles L. East The hand of time shall soon close itself about me. The winds of winter foretell the final days which demand I step into the endless depths of eternity? powerless to deny it's irresistible command, I must now accept repose beneath the silent earth of the valley. While reflecting in my quietest moments, I sometimes ponder the hour of my birth when I beheld in wonderment? the fading, twinkling stardust upon my tiny hands, and then how I followed, with such unfailing resolve and courage, the burdened path destiny lay before me. The softly tolling bell proclaims my journey near an end, at last? my duty done. Weep not, nor utter regret, for I shall touch the stars once more and with?stardust covered fingers?begin the journey once again.