Sixteen today: I feel quite old,
Sophisticated in my new blue jeans
And cool denim shirt. Sixteen.
I am leaving school behind me.
Perhaps I’ll get a job tomorrow,
Perhaps not.  Plenty of time.
I think I will live forever.

Twenty-five today: I feel mature                    
A new gray suit, for my wedding,
Complete with tie and crisp white shirt.
Ironed this day by my wife to be.
I’ve got a job; I’m in the City.
“Something in Insurance” they say.
My life is all ahead of me.

Thirty-nine today: I feel quite old.
My weekend to see the kids.
At least they love me, or so they say.
What went wrong? Who knows?
Perhaps it was for the best.
She’s happy now in her newfound life.
Mine could be half-over.

Sixty-one today: I know I’m old.
A shiny suit and crumpled shirt.
Ironed by me, but not too well.
The Insurance Company let me go,
“Early retirement” they said.
“Make the most of life, be free.”
I’ll try, because there’s not much left.

Eighty-two today: I’m giving up.
My dressing gown, like me, is frayed.
I should get dressed, but what’s the point.
Oh yes - I remember,
My youngest Grandson is coming today.
In his bright new jeans and denim shirt.
It’s his birthday, Sixteen.

His life lies ahead of him