Sixty Years Later

‘twas sixty years ago we sang
of blossoms clinging to the vine
while living only for the moment 
sharing time and sipping wine.

We were rovers way back then,
just moving on from place to place;
we feasted well and slept in clover,
looking for new dreams to chase.

A million yesterdays have passed,
but I shall ne’er forget those joys
of wine and song, you by my side
while unaffected by the noise.

Now sitting in our rocking chairs
recalling yearns of yesterday,
still living only for the moment 
watching time just slip away.


January 1, 2021

A month or so ago as I was driving to work I heard the song “Today” 
released in 1964 by The New Christy Minstrels. Listening to the words of 
this song I was inspired to write this poem reflecting on the feelings of that 
time fifty-seven years later.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2021


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Date: 1/18/2021 6:24:00 PM
You inspired me to listen to the song "Today". I love, "still living only for the moment", sitting in rocking chairs, touches my heart, beautiful John, Have a great week, Annette
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/19/2021 4:13:00 AM
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and comments, Annette, after all this time I am still living for the moment, it keeps me forever young (at least in my mind). Hugs.
Date: 1/16/2021 9:31:00 PM
Great pen John bringing back memories of this great song of the 60s. A really super piece truly indeed inspiring. Blessings,Gordon
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/17/2021 4:34:00 AM
Thank you, Gordon, I’m glad you enjoyed my walk down memory lane. John
Date: 1/14/2021 6:52:00 AM
They say those living in the moment are the happiest and your wonderful poem reflects that. Glad you were inspired by a song that day to write terrific memories. Hugs
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/15/2021 6:27:00 AM
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and comments, Cecilia, I appreciate it. Hugs, John
Date: 1/9/2021 6:03:00 PM
Ah, yes -- from rocking to the rocking chair -- the ravages, and yet the beauty, of time. Enjoyed the nostalgia, John. Happy Weekend, Gershon
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/10/2021 5:58:00 AM
Thanks, Gershon, day by day time slips away...
Date: 1/9/2021 5:38:00 PM
Nicely turned John. Just like a trip back in time.
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/10/2021 5:52:00 AM
Thank you, Fred, I appreciate your thoughts and comments. John
Date: 1/1/2021 4:05:00 PM
"Still living only for the moment, watching time just slip away" Such a tender thought. There are so many moments and emotions within. Your thoughts caress gently around me and my heart. Caress each moment my dear friend. Happy New Year. :) Hugs, Brandy
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/1/2021 5:36:00 PM
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments, Brandy, listening to this song brought back many memories of tender moments. Happy new year’s my sweet friend. Hugs.
Date: 1/1/2021 9:15:00 AM
very touching, john!
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/1/2021 2:55:00 PM
Thank you so much, Ilene, I’m glad you enjoyed it. Happy new year’s. John
Date: 1/1/2021 8:57:00 AM
Only takes an old song to unleash a treasure trove of memories from so long ago. Happy New year to you John. I hope you are well. Tom
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/1/2021 2:53:00 PM
This is so true, Tom, thanks for sharing your thoughts. Happy new year’s my friend. John
Date: 1/1/2021 8:43:00 AM
John, as we get older, our memories of joyful times become more and more precious. Your warm heart shines in this poem! Best wishes for the new year, Carolyn
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/1/2021 2:51:00 PM
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments, Carolyn, I have many precious memories. Happy new year’s my friend. Hugs.
Date: 1/1/2021 8:42:00 AM
I listened to this song on you tube...oh how sadly beautiful, John. Your memories are blossoms still clinging to the vine, and I know who you are by the poetry you write. You've woven the lyrics into your verses with a tender touch. Lovely sentiments, John.
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John Gondolf
Date: 1/1/2021 2:48:00 PM
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments, Jenna, I appreciate you and your support. Happy new year!
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