Ageing

Bowels demand autonomy,
sphincters lack all discipline
and soft furnishings are hard
on the lower back.
Dry river beds
appear overnight
south of cheekbones.
Journeys made
to adjacent rooms
are patiently retraced
in a search for their purpose.

Observing young children
brightens grey mornings,
as do demonstrations
of unconditional love.
Chance encounters
are valued occasions
for brief affirmations
of shared humanity.
There is more to laugh at
in a world better known.
And one is closer still to blackbirds that sing at dawn.

Glenn Hubbard

If you have any thoughts on this poem,  Glenn Hubbard  would be pleased to hear them.