I was told this poem by my Grandfather a long time ago, and I want to incorporate it into an art project ( Of course with the proper citation), however I do not know who wrote it.

It reads as follows:

Now ponder this as you go by
As you are now so once was I
As I am now soon you will be
And in the end you'll follow me


Any help figuring out an author is greatly appreciated.

This is often found on gravestones dating from the 1800's -

"Remember friends as you pass by,
As you are now so once was I.
As low as I you once must be,
Prepare yourself and follow me."

Yes. I remember him telling me that was where he saw one. I guess it's difficult to figure out who composes grave marker poems. Thanks for your reply.

Beautiful lines, very insightful and penetrating. I don't know their author, but already adore his approach to composing. I believe this may be an epitaph as some epitaphs are unique and very revealing. I downloaded a couple of them from search [bytesland.com] I must admit that some of them are even funny, to my surprise...