Ode to Age

Do not apologize for

Greying hair

For laughlines

For fading sight.

Do not apologize for

The unstable gait

For hands that shake

For feet that dance a little slower

For ears that hear less clear.

I forbid apology

For the years you wear with grace

For every line etching glory in your body

For the wisdom in your face

For the song that sings from the deepest megaphone within you

That shouts

I lived!

I Lived!

I LIVED!

You will not apologize for who you are

Fierce, Wonderful Woman

A hundred generations born in your womb

Fear calmer

Tear holder

Peace giver

Hope lover.

You do not fade.

You live both whole and scattered

At once here

At once everywhere

in a thousand lives you touched across this earth.

Do not apologize for

Being.

Do not apologize,

You

are

Exquisite.

shannon johnston