Poems by John Peter Read

The years are taking their toll.
Another birthday has now arrived.
People you meet say you're still looking young.
With a smile, you wink and say, "Nice try."

You have a few more aches and pains.
In fact, a different one each day.
Your eyesight's none too clever,
And your hearing has started to fade.

Your memory has gone on vacation,
Although you no longer travel too far.
You try to avoid meeting old friends
Because nowadays you forget who they are.

Wrinkles are appearing like magic.
Your hair is silver and grey.
When you wake, you praise the Lord
Just to have survived for another day.

Yes, birthdays used to be special.
When you're old, they're not as much fun.
You no longer want to rejoice and party.
Your mind's still willing, but your body has gone.

Another year is almost over.
A new one's about to begin.
Say goodbye to all the negative stuff.
Move on with the positive things.

Forget those New Year's resolutions.
They are never what they seem.
Resolutions are no sooner made than broken.
It's far better to follow your dreams.

Let's pray for health and happiness
And for peace in the New Year too.
And as those bells ring out at midnight,
I hope those dreams you dream come true.