I'm not as young as I used to be,
The wrinkles are there for all to see;
I'm not so sprightly and not so fit,
In fact I've slowed down quite a bit.

But as I get older I get much better,
Like a smelly old pipe, or a favorite sweater;
I see much more than I used to see,
And I do things more patiently.

I take more time where I used to hurry,
And find acceptance instead of worry;
I drive my car a good bit slower,
And I cut my grass a good bit lower.

But as I watch the kids grow older,
I don't mind if they seem bolder;
For I remember how it used to be,
When I just longed for maturity.

But now I've almost run my race,
I realize that with them I'll place,
The world, and all its hopes and plans,
And leave it in the best of hands.