S
At seventy four still competent
to manage independently.
He is supremely confident,
as he has every right to be.
Although he’s old his sense of pride
ensures he’s always clean and neat.
He will not let his standards slide.
Regarding that as a defeat.
He is well shaved, his trouser pressed.
He’s older than he seems to be,
he’s conscious of the way he’s dressed
both formally and casually
Although he’s old women still see
A fine upstanding specimen
A man who is still proud to be
as smartly dressed as younger men.
His back is straight he walks erect
carries the burden of his years.
Much easier than you might expect.
Old age for him holds no more fears.
He just accepts he cannot do
as quickly or efficiently
all of the things he might want to.
He hasn’t got the energy.
But what he can do is to show
the world he’s still a man
That old age will not bring him low
and by example prove you can.
Defy the ravages of age
it all depends on attitude.
Refusing to be average
there is no reason why you should.
Surrender and accept defeat
but keep on living till you die.
At any age life can be sweet
if only you’re prepared to try.
21-Feb-08
ivor or ivor.e hogg
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/self-pride/
