For me the years
have been factored
such couldn't be added
nor subtracted--

life could be viewed
from the serious or absurd
yet the same theme does pervade
much of it does bruise and hurt-

whatever the sages have said
I  surmise mankind is girt
by externalities beyond
its control-- so many fall on dirt-

I am glad to be a stoic
much have I contemplated
mindless of tears and fears
unfazed though unregarded.