As I age, and remember those around me who have been unlucky enough not to be here, I say, may you find the road you seek or the path on the mountain where the sun always follows. I will be here, watching you’re every move, while you trundle along in the wind.
So, until the day when it’s my turn, I’ll remember and share in the friendships and the days when the beer was cold, and the tarmac warm. Each of us will know that day, when it comes. Until then, keep a smile, good company and a love for all that matter.
The Transformation
He wakes at five thirty, old and stiff
Unsure of the day, cold and yet dry
Each day, he ages, the edge, a cliff
Dreaming just once, that he can still fly
He’s broken most bones, reflection clear
He moves past the mirror, ever so fast
He realizes time is here to fear
Inside, still twenty, seemingly past
Outside, no sun, it’s bleak and austere
Helmet and gloves, await on the seat
Straighten your back, and put on your gear
Start the ignition, time to compete
Transformation, a chrysalis, sure
He feels for the clutch, his mood lightens
Releasing the tension, that’s the cure
Suddenly, the landscape has brightened
Wrinkles do soften, while memories fade
It seems like a compromise chosen
Age seems suspended, surely a trade
For the time being, he’s frozen
Once again youthful, on he will ride
Out through the wind, the sleet, snow or rain
From his reflection, yes, he will hide
Who wants to be old, I shall abstain
For inside this man, all is not well
He’s known it and felt it, attrition
But once on the bike he can compell
To get through the day on a mission
For life’s for living, and not the weak
Intuitively, that’s what he knows
Adventure and moments, yes he does seek
One more spring, beyond winter and snow
The clock is still ticking, yes I know
I’ll still buy a tire, change out the chain
Hopefully, maybe still time to grow
Will I have memory, still be sane?
I forget where I’m going often
That’s okay, anywhere is still fine
My love for this gift hasn’t softened
The green Kawasaki, yes, is still mine
So, I’ll find my way home, no matter
The day has been bright, and so alive
It doesn’t matter if thoughts scatter
It really was all about the drive
I’ve been gone too long people shall say
You know you should quit, while you’re ahead
I laugh at their wisdom, not today
I’ll have lots of time, for sure, when dead
I cover the bike and pat the bars
I’ve held for so long and so needed
Look up at the night, stare at the stars
Ignoring their warnings unheeded
If I should not waken in the morn
They’ll find me, a smile, etched on my face
Without much derision, and no scorn
They’ll know I’m still riding, I’ve found my place.
by Ken McMullen
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