Birth, then life’s journey, a term’s initiation,

followed by death, an auspicious occasion.

However celebrated, just another graduation.

Whether lived by a valedictorian

Or a lowly sinner who just keeps on sinning

Is it just the finale, or is it the beginning—

Only a life well lost or a quest worth-winning?

For in the grand scheme of things, ultimate success

Might mean it’s hard to tell the starts from the endings.

Since memory erases flaws and remembers the best.