This poem is about old age. It reminds us that old age is a gift and not a curse. If you are good to yourself, then old age will be good to you.
Old Age Came to Me
A stranger came knocking, knocking.
A stranger came knocking.
When unanswered—he hammered—
Ever louder—
And would not be denied.
Amid the silence that that ensued,
His message came loud and clear.
No room for uncertainty.
Ready or not—I am here.
You have done well, I declare.
You have lived a good life,
And have not sacrificed your health,
On the altar of pleasure.
I came for you, he said
And you have major adjusting to do
I am a friend—if you will let me be one,
An enemy if you treat me as such.
Be kind to yourself,
And the world
Will be kind to you.
Respect does come with age
Even old dogs are treated kindly
If they don’t bite the extended hand
Age begets wisdom,
And wisdom is universally respected,
Although not always appreciated.
You can’t roll back the years
And undo the past.
But in many little ways
You can alter the future.
You stand at the threshold.
Yes!
You paid your dues—to stand there.
You can run and play
And you have leisure
To pursue the life’s little pleasures.
You live in a peaceful country.
Harm does not seek you.
Relax and enjoy the day.
A subsistence diet is all that you need.
Nutrient rich food and much variety.
Consider it not a sacrifice
To deny yourself certain pleasures.
Over indulgence is your enemy.
Inactivity is to be shunned.
Old age is not a disease.
But you must be prepared.
Don't relive yesterday.
Enjoy today and let the future be.
Savor the flavor of today
And leave yourself—
Ever hungry for tomorrow
