ode to my wife
(a poem from an old man)

they say you’re getting old
your hair is turning white
but all i see, my sweet
are streams of silver moonlight

they see wrinkles on your face
a new one every day
just a tally of your beauty
is all i have to say

your teeth fall off one by one
just like a shooting star
the softness of your gums
is the best wish by far

your walker, our pretend balcony
look down from up above
you’re my only juliet
and i, your romeo in love

slower than a tortoise
but then i am no hare
it’s easier to catch you
so run, my love, beware

your eyes fail as clouds pass
memories is all you see
i paint a rainbow in your ears
and let you watch through me

hold my cane, hold your hand
the comforts of my life
i’ll always need you
my pillar, my beautiful wife

through inactive years ahead
i’ll still love you then
my darling, my friend, my love
wait, what’s your name again?