On Growing Old

I don't want to grow old.
I'm too young now to die.
Old and gray and wrinkled and slow.
Some say it's all a lie.

You are wise they say.
Ripened and whole.
You can fill an entire day
With one single stroll.

But nay, I say.
I'd rather live.
Live to see my children play,
and run, and give.

I don't want to grow old.
I'm too young now to die.
Wise and kind and laughing and whole,
Waiting for the Good Lord to close my eyes.