At 10, I ruled the world –
hard peddling up steep roads
and letting go on the other side
thrilling to speed and risk.

At 20, I felt the pressure
to define my life, marry,
and be somebody – driven
without much compassion

At 30, I relaxed a bit,
celebrated having birthed
three children, confident
in my role and responsibility.

At 40, alone and toppled
by unexpected divorce,
I found new focus in recovery
in redefining goals, dreams

At 50, facing the brutality
of chronic illness, I vowed
not to lose purpose, willed
myself to re-engage, create

At 60, the wisdom of a gentler
pace, the joy of simple pleasure,
not much different from 10,
minus the hills and thrills.

(This past year has brought so many unexpected gifts that I feel my gratitude is inadequate.  Travel, the introduction of photography and art to my repertoire, and finding a purpose through written word.  What I once thought as an ending (ME/CFS) has opened many new doors.  Life never fails to delight.)

(My weekly challenge is celebration.)