In youthful days of stress-free cheer, I trod a path so bright and clear, Where sunsets kissed the sandy shore, Wrapped in salty sultry air. My road of life, so fresh and new, Seemed never-ending in my view, With every step, confidence grew, I walked forth, with hope my guide.

The blooms of youth adorned my way, And laughter danced through every day, Each night brought me sweet relief, Where dreams could never go astray. But time, that silent, stealthy thief, Stole in with whispered hints of grief, Blossoms fell, the sky turned grey, And shadows stretched across my way.

The gentle slope grew steep enough, The stones, once soft, turned cold and rough, With every step a growing load, 'Till I began to question much. I've climbed the peaks of victory, Where eagles fly and rivers flee, Yet in the valley low I found Peaceful soft tranquility.

The journey long, my days grow few, The path is worn, the colors flew, But richer far than gold or fame, Is wisdom bought by sad miscue. For in the tread of weary feet, The road has taught me lessons sweet, That joy and pain often embrace, In them life's wisdom we can greet.

Now aged eyes look back with grace, Upon the road I've traveled so, The joys and sorrows, every face, A facet in my life's tableau. My journey's end is drawing near, The twilight whispers soft yet clear, As I near the final bend, I find the path that led me here.

To a place where love doth grow, As hearts entwine, forever so, And all the roads of life converge, Into a single, endless glow. The road of life, though fraught with care, Has led me to a place so fair, Where age is but a memory, And love the treasure we find there.