| LIFE IN SOLERA | NOVEMBER 2023 | 31
Bill bailed out, 5,000 feet, he had no fear at all.
A smile was sealed across his face throughout the awesome fall.
Bill was one score and a few; a jump to get his fix.
Young and fit, good for Bill, one way to get his kicks.
Bill turned two score and as he aged, his kicks waned a bit.
Now a hike and some golf he played and still retained his wit.
Not as young, not quite as fit, Bill still showed such little fear.
But on occasion he would ache, once even shed a tear.
On to three score, Bill did go; adventures they did shift.
A cruise, a swim, less golf but some; his strength began to drift.
No jumps from planes, long hikes no more; but still he had some game.
But now his motivation shrank, and capabilities did wane.
Now four scores have come and gone, Bill's vigor, it's abated.
Now he walks around the block, desire for long hikes faded.
At first, Bill was raged and ruined the day, why did he have to age?
But soon he came to realize he had to turn the page.
His lifestyle had to change a bit to match his current self.
But lo, he did not have to put his joy upon the shelf.
Dear elders, you must find your joy regardless of your age.
If you have strength, a will to strive, please stay upon the stage.
If you want to jump from planes on high or swim the ocean wide,
Bless you, if these are things you do; but bless the other side.
The side that wants to stay at home, put limits on their quests.
Bless them too, it's not your job to make them pass a test.
We are all free to choose our style, do what we want to do.
Just find your joy and do your best and try to sideline blue.
Your vigor, it may come and go, aches, pains may slow your pace.
Regardless. throw your sadness out and you will win the race.
It's Your Journey
By Dennis Rice, Solera Resident • www.SoCalRice.com
POET'S CORNER
