The Aging Process

The Aging Process
2019 Candice James

One day you'll understand
why my mind is somewhere else
when I seem to be looking through you,
or into the edges of the mirror or the walls.

Every day I walk a little slower,
laugh a little softer, ache a little more
and carry yesterday's kisses and wishes with me
in the fragile cradle of my heart.

You may notice me searching
for words or something I lost
long, long ago in the keep of my youth.
My mind wanders deep inside old memories
and tears brim in my eyes much easier
than they did yesterday when I was young.
Even now as I write these simple lines
tears are sliding down my cheeks
and I know not why...
I know not why.

I find I'm thinking of old days,
old friends, and old loves
that disappeared so quietly
but are not forgotten.

Sometimes I can't recall their names
and their faces seem hazy and blurred,
but their words still echo in my heart.

Sometimes I close my eyes.
Dreaming awake, I see their faces, hear their voices
amidst a glow of music playing softly;
and I imagine I'm dancing again.

I've come to realize this is the aging process...
One day you'll understand.