Yes, I'm getting older
And time is wearing on
My back is not as sturdy
My knees are almost gone

I huff and puff while working
And gag, and cough, and wheeze
I try to pay attention
But then my thoughts just freeze

I groan with each exertion
Time's shrinking my biceps
A ladder's out of question:
I stumble up the steps

A cap, a crown, a filling:
My dentist's latest ploy
To dip into my savings
And wreck things I enjoy

I'm taking medication
For dryness in my eye
And three more red and blue ones,
I can't remember why

I stay close to the bathroom
And always keep a pair
Of undies in the glovebox
And fixin's for my hair

I say, 'Do you remember?"
My kids just roll their eyes,
I'd kick them in the bottom,
My foot won't go that high!

I work between my naptimes
And get a few things done
Like running to the doctor
Or watching my grandson

I turn up the TV,
Til' my neighbor pounds the wall,
But the ringing in my ears
Means I cannot hear at all

My kids are getting anxious;
Last will and testament
I've told them not to worry
They'd cry at what I've spent

I'll be here a bit longer
To savor a few days:
The glory of the mornings
And sunset's golden rays

Yes, I'm getting older
And time is wearing on
I'll soon be going higher
When from this place I'm gone!

by David C Rogers