Sonnet 15 When I consider everything that grows

When I consider everything that

Holds in perfection but a little moment,

That this huge stage presenteth nought but

Whereon the stars in secret influence comment;

When I perceive that men as plants increase,

Cheered and check'd even by the selfsame sky,

Vaunt in their youthful sap, at height decrease,

And wear their brave state out of memory;

Then the conceit of this inconstant

Sets you most rich in youth before my sight,

Where wasteful Time debateth with

To change your day of youth to sullied night;   And all in war with Time for love of you,   As he takes from you,

I engraft you new.