I chased the carrot of wealth and fame,
A donkey's pursuit, with no lasting claim.
Happiness, a mirage on the desert's sand,
Vanished at dawn, leaving empty hand.

Socializing, a masquerade ball,
Masks of pretence, hiding hearts' fall.
Conversations, a scripted play,
Lines rehearsed, but souls astray.

Time, a thief in the night,
Stole moments, leaving hollow light.
Procrastination, a siren's call,
Lured me to rocks, where productivity would fall.

But then I woke, from slumber deep,
And saw the truth, in life's cryptic keep.
Freedom's eagle soared, financial independence flew,
Selecting friends, a garden to nurture anew.

Purpose, a compass, guided my way,
Through life's labyrinth, night and day.
Moments, precious gems, I polished with care,
Memories, a treasure chest, to forever share.