I was 20 years old in this picture, a very long time ago. What a handsome chap compared to now.
Today for me is a special day
celebrated in my own quiet way
just me and the dogs who help me share
my closest friends who really care
although to them no concept of time
not knowing the thoughts going through my mind.
The few friends that still remain
send me greeting but kindly refrain
from pointing out just how old I have aged
but instead, they talk of an earlier page
in this book of life that we all write
each page turning in a flash of light.
When we were all young and could run and jump
and kick the ball with a mighty thump
sending it flying miles down the field
and running like hell with nerves of steel
to tackle the man the ball to retrieve
and score a goal for our team
Gone are those days but the memories live on
all that is left of that glorious song
as we doddle around trying to be straight
hoping to not fall as we walk at a pace
not much faster than the average snail
I hope to make it and to prevail.
On the other hand I can still walk
along with the dogs as we chalk
up the steps counting each one
walking for us is lots of fun
trying to get two miles a day
exercise for us which in its own way
helps me to reach that unwritten goal
another birthday to add to the fold.
Today I am eighty seven years old
with a mind that is young as life still unfolds
with so many things to see and do
and a memory that hasn’t much clue
of names of people that we have just met
and just as soon I quickly forget.
But all of the important stuff
like living my life which is enough
to keep me active with my little dogs
planning a trip and keeping the logs
paying the bills and driving the RV
a monster vehicle plain to see.
How much longer to live this life
until it turns into too much strife
and I can no longer the person be
to care for my doggy family
or look after myself along the way
or this life is no longer play
Who knows what the future brings
maybe a host of other nice things
and that other birthdays will come
to add to this present one
of one thing I am pleased to say
I have lived my life in my very own way.
Written 01/19/2023 Read my other poems at https://ponblog2011.com
Frank, you may worry about your memory as so many people do, but your poetry is still just as amazing as it ever was. Have a nice birthday!!
Fred, my memory isn’t what it used to be either, always forgetting people’s names! I’ve already forgotten what I was going to right here. Oh, right, happy birthday.
* write right here
Happy Birthday. That is a great poem. You seem to stay pretty healthy.
Hope you’ve had a very nice day. i’ve enjoyed reading your poetry and your every day going’s on. Happy birthday Frank