On The Downward Side of Life

“Some men go skimming over the years of existence to sink gently

into a placid grave, ignorant of life to the last, without ever having

been made to see all it may contain . . .” Joseph Conrad

I’m finding it kind of easy these days

On the downward side of the hill.

No worries about all those mouths to feed

Or how to pay the next bill.

Of course I have to admit

I’m no longer in my prime

And when I do have a hill to ascend

It’s tougher than ever to climb.

But somehow I make it up that hill

And coast down the other side

Then look back at what I have done

With a certain amount of pride.

There’s no need to tell others of age

About the hill I descend

Some have been there for many years

And many more intend.

It’s those who are now on their way to the top

Should learn what these words have meant,

That a ride to the top too quickly

Could mean a rapid descent.

Slow down your pace, invest in life

With happiness taken in stride.

Be content with a leisurely upward pace

To enjoy the downward ride