As I Age

Little things fall away 

as big things become more clear. 

I can no longer open jars 

or carry two grocery bags at once. 

But I can perch like an eagle  

on the edge of the vastness 

in any given moment. 

I now walk into the kitchen 

and forget what I was after. 

But I can recite Basho’s instruction 

to Kikakou in 1689 and join 

their conversation. 

I now stop near the top of the hill 

because my hips burn. 

But can see directly into the soul 

of anyone who has been loved  

or broken open. 

And I can wake in the night  

with a sudden fear of death. 

But can quiet that fear with  

the ancient chorus humming  

in the wind. 

It’s as if my body is a nest 

and my soul is a bird 

who has waited a lifetime 

for the moment 

it can fly away. 

A Question to Walk With: Describe what aging feels like to you.  

This excerpt is from my book of poems in progress, Suchness.  

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For more information about Mark’s books and upcoming events, visit MarkNepo.com and ThreeIntentions.com.  

Information about his upcoming webinars, can be found at Live.MarkNepo.com. 

Sept 8-10: Mercy by the Sea, Madison, CT, Falling Down and Getting Up: An Experiential Weekend and International Book Launch and Signing. (web link) 

Sept 15-17: The Sophia Institute, Charleston, SC, Falling Down and Getting Up — Discovering your Inner Resilience and Strength. (web link) 

Jan 7-13, 2024: Global Journeys in Guanacaste Costa Rica, Saying Yes to Life: The One Life We’re Given — A Weeklong Retreat. (web link )