They say four billion years ago life showed its face on earth.

And as it happened, man became, the product of that birth

Then grapes appeared upon the vine, eight thousand years just past.

Their juice, when crushed, seemed harmless, when enjoyed with repast.

But like most things that seem so fine, and too good to be true,

A darker side revealed the lure that many came to rue.

When smitten by this patient foe the bearers have no shield,

And when the choice is yea or nay, the stricken always yield.

So shameful was this malady, a moral thing they said.

Their families kept their secret safe, long after they were dead.

Centuries have come and gone, since first it got its grip,

And one in ten would pay the price, when venturing one sip.

Then God saw fit to intervene and offer up a choice,

And Bill and Bob were listening and heard his loving voice.

How fortunate we are today, to be among the first,

to have been chosen, at this time, to quell that deadly thirst.

The wisdom of eight thousand years is placed there at our feet.

How blessed to have it waiting, as I stumbled in defeat.

When pondering the suffering crossed, that vast expanse of time,

I would not waste one moment of His precious gift sublime.