The early years spent exploring, learning.
Impatiently waiting for the days, years to pass.
Eager for privileges, adulthood.
Reputation, being liked,
Following the norm meant everything.
Youth wasted, innocence slipped away.
The middle years spent striving,
Wanting more.
Little time to enjoy what's possessed.
Moments of bliss compressed
Between "where I've been"
And "where I'm going."
If only to stop and ask "where am I?" And breathe.
Tears flowed though I smiled.
No regrets about who I was, forgiven one's self.
No worries about where I'm going.
Gently landing.
Learning to appreciate the moment.
Learning to love and respect myself.
And in knowing myself, found happiness.
So that in latter years
I might reflect on a life appreciated.
Grateful for the best gift one could receive.
And realize the pleasure in giving
Having found my other half.
Knowing I gave my life, body, everything
To one other.