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On Living and Dying

The young don't dwell on aging or dying When young you're thoughts go to living surviving With time we find that even when trying Though we'd not like to think it - living is dying Time when young seems to stretch on forever But as we age which we thought would be never Time it turns out is not ever and ever And we can't avoid no matter how clever The inevitable end that surely will sever Our being from life's short journey forever So you can live dying or you can die living You can suffer a mass of constant misgiving Or be kind to yourself attempt some forgiving And pass with your thoughts of a life worth reliving

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Ilene Bauer

Date: 4/27/2016 8:51:00 PM

You've made some excellent points here, Howard. The young are oblivious and that's how it should be. Let them enjoy life! As we age, though, it's hard not to think about how much time we may or may not have left. I can relate to this poem in a big way...

Howard Tunick
Date: 4/29/2016 6:45:00 PM

Isn't it amazing one's point of view changes with age. It seems fairly universal. It also kind of explains how you just can't effectively advise the young. They just have to repeat your mistakes themselves before they learn. One of my most memorable moments... one of the "young" turned to me and very quietly said, "You were right." Blew me away..... but of course... a bit late.

Sandy Jack

Date: 4/3/2016 7:51:00 AM

Wow very powerful write about the scary reality very well written. My first poem life is on the same topic check it out.

Howard Tunick
Date: 4/3/2016 8:19:00 AM

I did. You hit on a very important point. I quote, "Live your own life make sure you have fun". You always need something to look forward to.