Time Has Played Me Hard

Time has played me hard forcing me upon my knees Wringing hands for all that was and is no more Weeping tears against grey clouds of loneliness, Lost within mists of long ago, when time was mine To use and manipulate as my heart decreed. Summers long, bright, shared with family and friends All reaching life's end, grave deep or ashes scattered. Old age has now claimed my body but not the mind, Still active, alert as if I were young and robust, Not held prisoner to relentless ticking of each hour. Body racked with arthritis, blood-pressure, and gout, Eye-sight failing, I continue on my journey alone. Oh, but to hear once more the laughter, sharing happiness With those I knew and loved, now precious memories.