What is far removed from the thoughts of the young
Who expect innumerable days more to come
With more immediate concerns to occupy their attention
Engaged in the drama playing out in their life
Not so for us who have distanced from the demands of work
With quiet time to ourselves as much as we like
Taking the measure of what we have been through
Aware of our uncertain end waiting in the wings
In spring the affirmation of new life infuses our thoughts
Savoring the landscape bursting with buds opening to the world
Alert to hear the squawking of hatchlings clamoring for food
Urging their parents to bring more to their insatiable brood
We who have known the loss of our dearest loved ones
Live with a lifelong grief buried under everyday life
Knowing that a sadness will surface from time to time
Because the happy memories of them live on in us
Once you have come to terms with what we do not control
The present expands in a way into all that exists
Each precious moment exquisite in its transience
To be shared with the people you love
