A note on my father's birthday

The day is long and still is far from done,
outside is twilight and trees are grey,
it will be cold after the setting of the sun
tomorrow, though, will be another fine day.
I've had too much to think of over these hours,
too many memories of times both bad and good;
I've not made the best use of my small powers,
I've not always done the things I know I should.
But I've also given beyond the fullest measure
that I was asked, I've tried to do my best,
I've not been rich, have no material treasure,
and still I find myself on a long quest.
But I have no shame to say out loud
there are things I've done of which I'm proud.