Cast your bread upon the waters; After many days it may return. Give a portion widely, even seven or eight, For you do not know what trouble waits on earth. When the clouds are full, they empty rain; Where a fallen tree comes down, it stays. Whoever watches every wind will never plant; Whoever studies every cloud will never reap. You do not know the pathway of the spirit, Or how bones are formed within the womb. So you cannot know the whole work of the Maker, Though His hand is moving everywhere. Sow your seed in morning light; Do not rest your hands when evening comes. You cannot tell which labor will be fruitful, Or if both will prosper side by side. Light is sweet, and seeing sun is pleasant; Receive the days that rise before your face. If a person lives through many years, rejoice, Yet remember that the darker days will come. Young one, walk with gladness while your strength remains, Follow rightful joy, but know that God will judge. Put away corrosive grief and needless evil; Youth and morning vanish like the mist.