Old-Timers

Old-timers he calls it
as he hides behind grins
to mask his fears
and his lapses from friends.

Even though he's here, he's gone
as his past and memories slip away.
The dark journey has begun
and more of him is lost each day.

I cry, but I don't let him see.
I want him to know joy
while he clings to me.

This may not be
classic girl meets boy,
but it is about love -

for better or for worse,
in sickness and in health,
until the dark journey is done.

by Juanita G. Irvin