These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

Are They Be Proud of Me?

To live the days of life as full
would be my heart's desire.
Released from this world's gravity pull
to soar in spirit high'r.

The ones, who birthed me long ago,
have parted to their reward.
Their pat-on-the-back would let me know
they're pleased with me as bard.

'Twas in my youth I learned to play
the piano quite a bit,
but now the waning need today
oft tempts me just to quit.

I sang a man of tenor tone
in high school, college, both,
but styles of music, that alone
hath left me by its growth.

The poet's pen hath been companion
most of my long years.
'Twill be my friend when facing canyon
of my last dark fears.

This teacher in me tries to find
some hope, that through my words
enlightened students, no more blind
will fly in mind as birds.

To sit and write from day to day
seems meager at its best,
but when we see at last we'll say,
"Our lives are truly blest."

Our dearly departed do they see
the days we're living now?
Will Mom and Dad be proud of me?
They are proud now I trow.

by Jay O'Toole
on July 17th, 2020