Full Speed Ahead

One step closer to finishing the project, The deadline is fast approaching, and it has to be perfect. Working hours after hours not to fall behind, The family is eating dinner—another night without Mom, no need to remind. Keeping an eye on the clock, eight o’clock is approaching; The boss demands a tête-à-tête. The pounding in your head makes you fret, Another migraine and the aura of a halo. Punching out won’t be before 11 p.m.—you just know. You pull up a chair and place the folders on the table, Your stomach grumbles, and your mind is on the stale bagel In the fridge, in a brown paper bag. Working for the almighty dollar is the price tag, Leaving the house, leaving your family behind, Desperately trying to keep your nose to the grind. Full speed ahead, feeling like a hamster on the spinning wheel; You should be at home bathing your babies, but instead, you feel like a heel. Running as fast as you can, Leaving your world behind as you go over the plan. The boss lady reminds you that many have fallen behind, No job is secure—it can be transferred and assigned To the younger crowd climbing the ladder, Not trying to make you feel sadder. The clock of time falls behind each year, Just be happy if you make it another year. Full speed ahead or fall behind— Just those two options, no peace of mind. The years sped by, and the seasons come and go, The family is all grown now, and your gait is slow. So many regrets swirl through your head; The deadlines of yesterday were not here to stay. If I could snap my fingers, my life would have been full of delays. I would have fallen behind while bathing my babies, I would have fallen behind enjoying the daisies, I would have fallen behind when I had a full house. Now, the days are long as you gaze at your spouse; The irony of what we think is important No longer matters as you spread Ben Gay—it’s the most absorbent. The aches and pains are a constant reminder As you make your way to your favourite recliner.