"Fifty"

            
               
The half-century mark is nearing
In just ten weeks I will own it
With sound mind, perfect eyesight
Able body, and good hearing
               
It seems impossible, where did the years go
I pause, remember, consider, reminisce
There it is, coursing my memory
In detail, a time-stamped video
               
The enviable childhood, a caring Mom and Dad
Never concerned about a roof or bed
No worries for transportation nor meals, but often reminded
"We must be thankful, and give of what we have"

An older sister, by nearly nine years
We fought like badgers when I was a lad
Now, two thousand miles apart
Our semi-annual visits end with tears

Dad, my idol, the consummate teacher, always sharing
His knowledge, wisdom and common sense
Now many years passed
Made me realize, long ago, the immense depth of his caring

Mom is still with us, sharp, witty and quick
Keeps everyone on alert
In conversation and deed
She offers verbal barbs, example, soft and slick

They have guided, shared and watched as I grew
With decisions, love, responsibility, hard work
Consistently on display
Teaching me all they knew

As I reflect, and study the movie in my brain
One promise, never bent nor broken, was made
To my son, now a taller man
I vowed to teach him the same
       
My neighbor and close friend, no longer here
Knew well my boy, watched him grow
Both having teased me about the big 5 - 0
They too shared a friendship, it still lives, tall and dear
       
         
*July 4, 2014*