Away

Though never one to take much risk,
My younger self, at least,
Would view life as a banquet 
And be ready for a feast.

I'd sample some exotic tastes
And venture, armed with pluck,
To unfamiliar places,
Never worried I'd be stuck.

I'd marvel at the vast array
Of offerings to choose, 
Without the aid of tour groups,
Led by bus or van or cruise.

My older self, however, 
Having savored many treats,
Is less likely to explore, with ease,
Unknown or foreign streets.

So being in a brand-new place, 
Though temptingly arrayed,
Has me, sadly, having to admit 
I'm just a bit afraid.

Of course, we'll go and do and see
But not quite like before.
We'll still dive in but nowadays 
Stick closer to the shore.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2019

Poem

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Rigoler Avatar
November 22, 2019 at 8:42 AM
I share your cautious sentiments here. I'd like to visit Paris one last time, but my health and the terrorist problem in Paris have given me cold feet, at least for now. At my age, just living is a scary adventure! / M
Wolf Avatar
November 18, 2019 at 9:03 PM
Ha, ha. You're just smart, that's all... I remember how felt 'so safe' walking around in Israel at night when I lived there in my 20's. ---Yeah sure... Rockets falling everywhere; bombs gong off... What was thinking?! :) gw
Leffanta Avatar
November 18, 2019 at 4:01 PM
It is a troubled world now with more to worry about than fire ants and mosquitoes. Dr. Oz insists you will die an horrible death if you do not protect your eyes and every bit of flesh from natural sunshine but, hey, everyone dies from something so enjoy your life! Aloha! Rico
Borke Avatar
November 18, 2019 at 12:49 PM
No place like home. You could access the sky from everywhere. Life is so fast pace that even 24/7 is not enough time in my own home. I realized this when my mother moved out of the home I grew up in. I still would want to hang out there.
Na Avatar
November 18, 2019 at 11:05 AM
Hi Ilene. Great write. Thanks for sharing
Green Avatar
November 18, 2019 at 10:56 AM
Loved this Ilene and I know exactly what you are saying. It's funny how life changes things for us.
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