Midwest Mary

Not too old
to pretend
I am soaring with the birds
or swimming with the fish

not too delicate
to imagine
scaling up Mount Everest
or skiing in the Alps

not too proud
to ask for help
when I can no longer do
the things I once could

not too oblivious
to forget
those who taught
and nurtured me

not too smug
to admit
that I’m wrong
or don’t understand

not too naïve
to believe
what I hear
or that I know your pain

not too arrogant
to think
I’m as talented
or smarter than you

not too selfish
to share
what I have
or my God-given talents

not too busy
to thank
those who clean public restrooms
and work outside rain or shine

not too rigid
to change
my perspective
or the direction I’m headed

not too tired
to listen
to your story
and hear your thoughts.

not too modest
to dream
of holding your hand
or navigating life with you.

©Mary K. Doyle, 2025

Have you read Young in the Spirit: Spiritual Strengthening for Seniors and Caregivers? It may be the perfect gift for someone you love.