Autumn Years.

Sitting on a park bench in a solitary state.

Thinking of the years gone by, pondering my fate.

While through the trees the gentle breeze exhales a plaintive sigh,

the flowers bend in homage, as it gushes swiftly by.

Their colours like a mystic aura atop a stem of green

tall grasses stand erect, dotted in between.

My thoughts drift back to yesterday and I a pretty, sweet young girl,

trim in figure, neat of dress, hair cascading down in curl.

The world was my oyster then and I its precious pearl!

From the tender age of twenty two to almost sixty five                           
I had 20 children every year!

I loved each one and treasured them - teaching was my career.

I watched them grow up in my care, their achievements made me proud!

I taught them well so they stood out in any given crowd.

I’ve been to all their Weddings, Christenings, a funeral or two

and I was always made so welcome, part of their family crew!

But now the years have galloped on. Suddenly I’m old!

I wonder what the future holds? I shiver feeling cold.

For no more will I teach students or for those skills be admired.

‘Father Time’ has caught up with me.

Yesterday, I retired!

Reviews

[Soren]

Marie what a tribute this is. As to the poem itself, it reads so smoothly with good rhyme. It tells a story, and as stated in the metaphor autumn years, it speaks of the seasons of one’s life. I too have taught, but at the college and university level. Nevertheless, it gives great pleasure to see the impression that one makes upon others lives. Teaching is like poetry. It reaches some and others not. I too have mostly retired with the exception of a couple of long-term patients that I still see regularly. At this stage of life one looks back at what contributions one has made and hopefully marks that will continue in others. Just loved your poem

[Marie]

Thank you so v-e-r-y much for reading and for your lovely review, Soren.
I wrote this poem for a dear friend when she retired a few years ago and I am so very pleased you like it.
Thank you for your very kind words which I am so very grateful to receive. Wishing you a very happy, blessed and wonderful day to enjoy, dear Soren...

[Gee]

Another finely written piece Marie and a wonderful tribute too.
Spring and summer pass us by at a leisurely pace then autumn comes, gallops by leading us into winter and the when not if...

[Marie]

Thank you so very much for reading and for your beautiful comment, dear Gee. Yes, the Winter years of life don't be long coming and I pray they bring peace, light and love with them. Wishing you and June a very lovely Autumn day to enjoy! Take very good care of you, keep safe and well, dear friend...

[Writer at last! Sky ~]

Oh, for your Autumn Year's really a big big cheers🥂 your poems will never get old and retired for sure! You're really a magical ✨writer. I admire 🎩

[Marie]

Thank you for reading and for your kind words, Sky. I wrote this poem for a dear friend a few years ago when she retired from teaching after 42 years. Wishing you a very blessed and wonderful day to enjoy, dear poet...

[Writer at last! Sky ~]

Marie 42 years of teaching. Oh my god. Tons of experience and hard work. Salute to her and she really deserve a poem from you for sure! You did a fantastic job with your skills ✍️

[Marie]

Thank you so very much, Sky. I am most grateful for your kind words. Bless you always...