Respite Assessment Poem by Doug Gunderson

They say that when we’re older
We have a tendency to look back
To see the path we’ve taken,
Check if we’re on the right track.
But does it really matter?
We are exactly where we are.
Whether we’ve climbed mountains
Or journeyed near and far.
Do we have perspective?
Is compassion in our soul?
How do we try to handle
The things we can’t control?
I’ve looked back on my lifetime;
Where I’ve been and who I am
And I’ve come to the conclusion
That I’m like every other man.
I have mistakes, I have successes
And goals yet to achieve
Stuff I need to accomplish
Before I take my leave.
So reflecting on the path I chose
As I see the path I’ve lead;
I turn to face the future
And I choose to look ahead.
Try to be a better person.
Try to make more people grin.
Learn some things I do not yet know
Both outside and from within.
So my journey must continue
On the quiet autumn night
I’ve tasks to do, sights to see
And more poems to write.