It’s a cow getting old

This is another poignant poem written by Marie Hindmarsh, who was born in London and has lived in New Zealand for the last 40 years  …

It’s a cow getting old

I’ve come to the conclusion as now I’m getting older,
that in days gone when in my prime, I really felt much bolder.
I could jump those hurdles that life put in my way,
but now it’s getting difficult I really have to say.

I can still jump those hurdles but it takes me so much longer,
as my body groans and shouts at me, I’m not getting any stronger.
In earlier days I could take off in full flight,
but now when I try to run, it’s not a pretty sight.

My knees they are the trouble, they won’t bend, they’re stiff you see,
and if I try to move too fast I feel the urge to pee.
It doesn’t seem that long ago when I’d go to the mall and see,
old folk all sitting on the bench, now they sit by me!

I‘m thinking of getting a scooter I could dash around and about.
I could even break the speed record while the young folk clap and shout.
They would yell “Eh look there goes Super Gran,” as I leave them in my wake,
I’m sure I could get up to five mile an hour, as long as it’s got a brake.

Of course it would have to be motorised and a crash helmet I’d have to wear,
and if anybody cuts me up I’d cuss at them and swear.
Oh well, for me it’s just a dream. It’s a walking frame if I dare?
Unless my daughter would agree, to push me in a wheel chair?

She has a heart of gold, and I’m sure she wouldn’t mind.
I think she would gladly do it because she’s really kind.
As I sit and ponder, about my long lost youth,
the years have simply slipped away and I’m now getting old in the tooth.

Even some of those have deserted me, and it’s now getting harder to chew.
But, that’s another story. This one will have to do.

Written by: Marie Hindmarsh 15^th March 2010 ©