By Terence, 72. Doonside, NSW

Where have you gone, I wish you were here
What did I say, was my meaning not clear
When I looked in your eyes, saying I would be true
That time would not change, what you knew that I knew
The years that have passed, time just ticking away
Hair that was black, is now thinning and grey
My body is old, getting wrinkled and creaky
To look in the mirror, is frankly quite freaky
I can but regret, how it once was such fun
To leap and to jump, and to climb and to run
Just when did it start, was it quite complicated
When I started downhill, to the cliff that awaited
But today I’m alive, I can still take a hike
I can see with both eyes, can still ride my bike
My hearing is good, cos I hear what you say
Though my younger body, has long passed away
The time that I have, I must live for each day
Leaving no stone unturned, as I pass by the way
My love is only alive, just as long as I live
To pass on to others, all the love I can give
So I say to you, if you’re feeling sad
As long as you’re young, it can’t be all bad
You can run like the wind, or jump like a cricket
Swing up to the sky, or roll in a thicket
Time’s just a word, in the time where you live
Don’t be afraid, for time will forgive
All you have done, I tell you it’s true
You can re-do it better, in the time left to you
Heal all the hurts, you have done to others
Despite all the bother, you will feel better
So get off your chair, go out in the sun
Be of good cheer, go out and have fun
There is no one but you, who can use your good health
Once it is gone, no matter your wealth
You can’t buy it back, hold on while it passes
You can never see it, even with X-ray glasses
So enjoy every day, just you give it a try
Cos no time will be left, on the day that you die
Oh goodness Terence, this was so well crafted and articulated, it really hit home. I will be showing my children and hoping that they can absorb the wisdom present in your words. Thank you.
Gorgeous. Love your skill with rhyming words. Love the spirit of your piece. It leaves readers inspired and optimistic.