An Old Lady Past Eighty  

©Carolyn Ashe Stokes
2007

I'm not able to do ail the things that I could. But still, I'm not helpless, that's good! Knock on wood. The basics ! cover from deep in my brain were long ago planted, some corrected by pain, I sailed through my teen years and thought I was tough. Ever so awful, those experiences were rough! College took over and working helped my pride. A spiritual mentor and his wife were my guides.

Howard University was the school of my choice.
because international diversity helped hone my new voice.
Those friends that i made still remain in my heart
no matter how near, nor how far apart.
After college I still worked and married a Vet
Would you believe, we're still married yet?
While he finished Dental school, I worked for my child.
Those lonely years were soon reconciled.

Back to the Armed Services we saved as we planned. Two more children arrived. California our new land. It was hard being his assistant, a Mom, and volunteer. But that was why poetry helped keep me clear. All the frustration, the anger, and strain that was dealt I let go to make place for joy and laughter when felt. It wasn't easy. Education was prime. Lifelong Education helped balance my time.

The honors I received for my volunteer actions were rewards I received without money reactions. I still have my vision of Family Management in schools. Hopefully, someday, they will open closed rules. Still, I am learning how elders can stay healthy and helpful, still growing each day. We're entering a new phase of life on our planet. None of us can take our future for granted.

We need to create, in a shared active mode, what makes our lives better. Now that's quite a load; Our children need guidance away from old ways so they can envision a lifestyle that pays. Put money in balance. Put violence in the trash. Put respect in the forefront. Seek self pride, not cash. Teach those that want it. Humor helps quite a lot. When we laugh at ourselves, we've grown quite a lot!

When we keep character and teamwork high on our list We'll grow to excel into eighties with bliss.

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