Rounding the Corner

You have lived your first full century
with such amazing grace;
one hardly finds a line of it
upon your lovely face.
Your loved ones gather round you;
their living history.
The memories so clear to you,
to them a mystery.

Some of us remember Franklin,
but you knew Teddy too.
Your grandchildren would not believe
the Spartan life you knew.
I am sure you've spoken of it.
Can they truly comprehend
there were no autos, planes, TVs,
even radio back then?

But that is all behind you now
and you have paid your dues.
You can live a life of leisure
in any way you choose.
May this next century give you
many good, long, healthy years;
and may the days of happiness
outnumber those with tears.

For Alice

Joyce5/5/5