It's Been an Age



Older, old
that's me,
pensionable age,
unthinkable a while ago,
but I understand it all now.
so many things change,
my body, my face,
the mirror doesn't lie,
Neither do my bones.

Memories surface
when least expected,
then memory
leaves the building
when required.

Constants are dropping off my life,
doctor, dentist, newsagent, solicitor,
all retired,
gone from daily life,
wish they knew they're so missed.

Our cat's been dead three years,
always write it on the calendar
along with parents, friends, neighbours,
so sad,
but privileged to have shared their lives.

There's illness in the street now
I feel powerless,
just talk and help if needed,
fear too easy to contemplate,
eventual inevitability.

Remembering past neighbours,
I have their understanding now
upon hearing the local school children's
playtime shouting and chatter,
comforting reminder of my own youth.

Equilibrium is threatened,
someone is moving away,
who knows what's coming,
uncertainty.















Poetry by shells
Read 460 times
Written on 2020-09-14 at 01:30

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F.i.in.e Moods The PoetBay support member heart!
Yes, I'm starting to see, feel, live it too. I'm not at pensionable age yet, but the changes are inevitably more noticeable. Physical appearance (mirror doesn't sugar-coat it), physical health (declining), people (retiring or moving or dying), pets also gone... all of it, I so identify with. Not convinced I'll get around to liking this getting older business lol ;) I kid a bit, but your lines made me nod all the way to the last. Couldn't have described it better! Thanks.
2020-10-16


Lawrence Beck The PoetBay support member heart!
A grim but nicely written poem.
2020-09-14


jim The PoetBay support member heart!
It's so good to read your words again, and these in particular (all three poems). I can relate on every level—except, our aged cat is still with us.

With so much uncertainty, as you say, it is nice have something familiar once in a while. Seeing your name pop up is just that, familiar and welcomed.

jim
2020-09-14