by Beth McKim (PDF reads better Download Missing Light )
At times I long to be young again ---
when a bright red pimple on my chin was ugly, not life-threatening
and a friend falling was funny, not the beginning of the end---
when depression meant one night of tears and sad music,
not a debilitating disease---
while double vision meant too much to drink, not a brain tumor.
When a fat stomach meant too much lunch, not middle-aged spread
and achy legs meant growing pains, not blood clots
An elevated heart rate meant running too hard,
not atrial fibrillation---
when late night phone calls meant a lover missed me, not a death
and losing a spouse meant a breakup, not a funeral.
And at other times I savor peace that comes with age and see new light.
Poet Bio: Beth McKim lives in Houston with her husband and their Labradoodle, Lucy. She enjoys being a student of creative writing and Spanish. A former marathon runner and triathlete, Beth is still an avid swimmer and Yoga enthusiast. She particularly enjoys her part-time job as a medical actress and the time she spends with her new grandbabies.
