Though the Tortoise Lives Long

Though the tortoise blessed with magic powers lives long,
Its days have their allotted span;

Though winged serpents ride high on the mist,
They turn to dust and ashes at the last;

An old war-horse may be stabled,
Yet still it longs to gallop a thousand li;

And a noble-hearted man though advanced in years
Never abandons his proud aspirations.

Man's span of life, whether long or short,
Depends not on Heaven alone;

One who eats well and keeps cheerful
Can live to a great old age.

And so, with joy in my heart,
I hum this song.