Greeting Death

Greeting Death

 

When Death comes,

he will not find me

with hands in pockets.

No, I am going to tip my hat

and look the other way.

Going to act like I didn’t

see him coming.  He will

be surprised to learn 

he's the only one in the room

not in on the joke.

 

When Death comes,

I’ll ask if he can spare a buck,

see if he has an extra stamp,

and bum a smoke.

I’ll not inquire about

the weather,

tell him about the family,

or pretend to like his coat.

I’ll just point down the hall

and show Death the door.

 

When Death comes,

I’ll not shake hands

or be a gentleman.

If he taps me on the shoulder,

I'll brush him aside

with a boorish smirk,

check my watch,

mention he’s looking older.

Then I’m going to ignore him

and pick the lint from my lapel.

 

When Death comes,

I’ll get my best poem

and read it aloud

but I won’t let Death hear.

If old friends visit,

I’ll make them brownies

and we'll talk about Death.

As life begins to disappear,

and you believe Death has me,

put two sugars in my coffee.

 

When Death comes,

I’ll be ready.

Reviews

[Mark]

What a beautifully lighthearted way to look at the subject that terrifies so many! It is easy not to fear death when you have claimed as your own He who has already conquered it! First anthropomorphosing, then analogizing Death to the rest of your long-time companions is a master stroke. It is such a blessing to hear from you again, Todd. Please hang around awhile!

[Mary]

this is absolutly perfect.

[Carlana J.]

Seems as you have a wonderful sense of humor, it shines through!!! Yes, i will have a brownie with you, no problem.

Death is something that comes to everyone and you have delt with it so irrevently wonderfully and I love the pacing. Thank you.

Carlana J.
a newbie

[Rick Puetter]

Dear Todd,

This is a marvelous piece. This is unlike anything I have read from you before. There is a sure confidence in this writing. There is a conviction of knowledge of self and a disregard for the negative in life. I almost don't know what to say about the piece, I am so surprised. Pleasantly surprised. Eyes open with surprise and a nodding of my said, saying "Yeah. You nailed it."

Very impressive. Greatly enjoyed.

I wish you hung around WC more frequently and graced us more frequently with your poetry.

My very best regards, my Friend.

Rick

[Brianna Brie]

Interesting piece. It offers a new twist to one's end. Great job!

[Norma M Sutton]

lol I like this.