Expiration Dates
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I thought about the idea of expiration dates for people. We don't know when we or others are going to die, so we should treat them well so we won't regret toxic words or actions later.
EXPIRATION DATES - 20190122
We’ve all got inspiration dates,
But we can only guess at when.
From first breath ‘til the end,
Our lives were pre-measured by the Fates.
That doesn’t mean we can’t shorten our time
By taking risks with unhealthy lifestyles.
The Grim Reaper sadly grants no extra miles;
Life’s not a game played with overtime.
So what shall we do with the time we’ve got,
With whatever granted amount?
What shall we do to make it count?
Will our light be a nano- or a gigawatt?
All those loved-ones who share our houses-
We don’t know how long they’ve got to live!
What would you do if you did outlive
All you’re friends, children, and spouses?
Would you dwell on everything left unsaid,
Endlessly numbering your every regret.
“I wish I would have” your stone’s epithet,
Your expiration date expired, finally dead.
There’s no Marley’s ghost to give you warning.
To avoid so many pointless sorrows,
Treat all you love like they had no tomorrows.
Change your ways; start yesterday morning!
Copyright © Mark J. Halliday | Year Posted 2019
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