Getting Older

There's more rust in my joints than ever.
My bones sound like an old screen door,
and my knees predict the weather
better than any app.
Give me elastic waistbands, soft slippers,
and the creak of a recliner
that groans every time I sit.
Bring on the grandkids with sticky fingers
leaving fingerprints on the walls,
and loud toys that play the same song
again and again.
Pile on the mismatched furniture,
the frayed edges, the cracked plates,
and the joy of holding on to anything
that brings back a memory.
Let my friends swap stories about their ailments,
sit on the porch with their cardigans,
and say, "Remember when?"
Let mornings be slow, with aching backs,
glasses misplaced, and coffee that’s gone cold.
Remind me of the fortune of old photos,
the wealth of crumpled coupons,
and the art of navigating
the labyrinth of nostalgia.
Forget the resolutions,
just give me the constant hum of a well-lived life.
I’ll take the bottom of the cookie jar,
the forgotten, the outgrown,
the simple things that bring comfort,
one gentle turn
on the slow-spinning wheel of age.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2024

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Pick Avatar
July 25, 2024 at 2:35 AM
Well said Don, Pile on the mismatched furniture,the frayed edges, the cracked plates,and the joy of holding on to anything that brings back a memory. The rewards of a long life thanks for the confirmation. Regards Les.
Iannone  Avatar
July 25, 2024 at 2:58 AM
Thanks Les. Much appreciated
Slaughter Avatar
April 28, 2024 at 9:07 AM
Looks like you're accomplishing it with some style, grace, and, perhaps, a bit of panache. A terrific read, Don.
Iannone  Avatar
April 28, 2024 at 12:57 PM
Thank you, Jim. Panache...Wow, thank you. Cheers, Don
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace