The Passing of Time

When the aged learn to lean upon another's arm,
they oft times gasp out in dismay at their impending harm.

And when the aged learn to lean it is often with a fight.
On their own two feet they learned to fly only now to lose that right?

When the aged learn to lean they die a little inside.
Once esteemed and full of life - the loss is too painful to hide.

When the aged learn to lean sometimes the light goes out.
The loss of brilliance, hope and strength leaves them full of doubt.

For when the aged learn to lean it is at no small cost.
Once tall and proud the man sits down feeling all is lost.

God grant grace to us today (for one day we'll learn to lean)
as we fold up and neatly put away our parent's liberty.

We had an episode with my Dad last night. The dr. says he probably has early onset dementia of some sort but we don't know what kind. He is diabetic but doesn't tkae care of himself. He has high blood pressure, high cholesterol, hgh everything that's bad, low everything that's good. The sadness of this kind of illness sometimes overwhelms me. He used to be so strong. So capable. So smart. Now, he calls to ask me mulitplication facts and doesn't recognize tools he once used nor remembers how to use them at all. It is sad... so very sad... death would be easier. Many children of Alzheimer sufferes feel this way. Because the memory of their parents is slowly replaced by the changes the disease causes.

A blue day as I contemplate my own aging, what my children will do when faced with this, my health, changes I need to make, the future. I know Who holds the future but I do not like what might be in store.