LXXXIX: Of the preciousness of youth what doubt can…

Of the preciousness of youth what doubt can be entertained?
The period of old age is pregnant with infirmities and defects!

Every now and again, fresh wounds break out upon my heart;
And salt is spread and sprinkled upon my wounds always.

Should joy and gladness approach thee, be not overjoyed thereat;
For care and sorrow ever stare happiness in the face.

Murmur not at the tyranny, or the injustice of any one;
For it is fate that dealeth out misfortune upon us all.

Without some wise object, He hath not brought sorrow upon us;
For affliction is the test on the face of the dastard and the brave.

As much as happiness exceedeth, so much the more lavish is misery:
Fortunate is he, indeed, for whose belly sufficeth the dry crust.

Now that I am turned ascetic, for whom shall I gird on the sword?
It is well, forsooth, that I even bear a club my shoulder upon.

Should any one make inquiry concerning wounded hearts,
There is Khushhal, Khattak's, by his own clan lacerated.