Looking Back

So - nearing eighty is it now the time
To embrace the flashbacks that plague?
With brain cells depleting the race is on
to view memories of past passions and rage.

Your triumphant deals, and bested foes,
moonlight walks, or bright suns above.
Of parents now gone, or your babies cries,
or friends not told that they had your love.

You reflect about long silent relatives
those that rallied to any crisis,
you saw your children's endeavours leading
them to punt on the Cam or the Isis.

Perhaps you've not done too badly
You have survived when others failed
You kept turning up as and when needed
And may finally have your depression nailed.

Is this the sole value of old ageing?
Just to feel your inner self slowing
Concentrating only on where you have been
instead of where you could be going.