happy birthday

You’ve probably
Heard me say
“Getting old sucks
But it beats the alternative”

I’ve decided to change
To a more open stance
Getting old is
An opportunity to
See how flexible one is
With the realities of aging

In December of 23
I wrote a poem about aging
That included this:
Most of life is about getting better at things
But how to get better at this?
How to get better
At this ongoing loss

I’ve come to appreciate
The simple joy of
Being here now
Not comparing with
What was
But appreciating how
I formerly enjoyed things
That are no longer available
And that what is available
Now is also enjoyable

Today I enjoyed
The companionship
Of my love
I enjoyed phone calls
With people who care
About me
I enjoyed very good
Food
And messages from people
All around the world
Who took a moment to say
Happy birthday

I am happy
And it is my birthday
And I am enjoying
My life

Randy Roberts November 7, 2024