This life! In fractions of exquisite escapades 
On reflection, I recount my almost fifty years 
Sacred encounters with others, no charades 
Life! Measured, in skipped heartbeats and tears 
Summed, in, profound loss, countless discoveries 
Treasuries of laughter and several valued reveries 
Death! Eulogies and obituaries. Life! In summaries 
And of you, I shall carry only the fondest memories 

How do I go on during the next fifty and beyond 
I will forgive, as often I've longed for forgiveness 
Listening with an open heart and slow to respond 
I promise to be of service. Actions be my witness 
Refusing to go through life on autopilot or high speeds 
I will proceed in fulfilling needs and doing good deeds