Experience
Experience is simply this;
A preparation for some future state,
However broad or narrow be its scope.
We pass from grade to grade, as when in school —
Learning a little more each period
We spend on varied subjects in our own
Particular curriculum — trying
Our expertise from time to time,
(In tests designed to prove
The lessons we’ve absorbed),
As practices for what the future may
Present to challenge us.
Then we shall graduate,
(Or fail if we have not applied ourselves
With all due diligence),
Into the university of life;
Ready to face, (with what we know),
The known unknowns and unknown knowns
That will perplex our faculties and stretch
Our capabilities to cope.
Our futures we can dare to face once
We have learned from past experience.