reflection on aging

Raymond McIntyre – Flowers with a Mirror (1968)

we plead, “mirror, mirror, upon the wall”
like vanity before snow white’s death fall
“what have you done to me? that’s not my face!”
bouquet of flowered beauty –not a trace
youth’s pink blush gone, now yellowing appears
and sleek combed hair sticks up in fern-like spears
sweet bloom arranged in lovely china vase
reflecting back some weedy basket case!
what once were tender buds, no blossoms brag
where perky petals peeked, dry sepals sag
sketchy mirror, you lie! –won’t tolerate
image alone does not determine fate
perhaps the mirror does reveal true age
but real wisdom’s grateful to reach this stage.


Linking to Melissa’s Fandango Flash Fiction challenge…check it out!

11 Comments (+add yours?)

  1. rothpoetry's avatar rothpoetry
    Jan 24, 2025 @ 16:20:11

    So true, Lynn. The mirror never lies… it may distort but never lies. Sadly we look in the mirror and wish as we grow older. But you come full circle with having the wisdom to be grateful we made it this far!

    Well done!

    Reply

  2. artsandletters9's avatar artsandletters9
    Jan 22, 2025 @ 09:06:51

    Longevity is a gift. Old age and youth both have their obstacles. We need our Lord whatever the mirror tells us. Beautiful poem.

    Reply

  3. Melissa Lemay's avatar Melissa Lemay
    Jan 21, 2025 @ 09:28:55

    Amen!

    Reply

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