Start the journey of a thousand steps,
Uncovering traces of greatness
Cloaked under ordinary coverings.
Cues become commonplace after
Excavating old remains that lay
Silent as baseless noise makes
Suggestions that lead to dead ends.

Left to their own devices, people
Entrenched in their own thoughts
Around appearances seldom become
Validated as they reflect upon empty
Experiences that yield no fruit,
Searching for a deeper meaning

Carefully beyond the surface, and finally
Looking for meaningful trends
Under every nook and cranny.
Each victory becomes inscribed in
Stone, awaiting discovery by the next victor.