These Are My JOTtings, Part #2

When the Lord Paints You into a Corner

So many jobs, so little time,
and then the baby comes.
The career is parked, so new the clime,
and pay no more has sums.

Was 43 when I left work
outside the domicile.
Childcare had its daily perk
"to hold the child awhile."

But now the child is an adult,
and I'm a senior saint.
I look for work and need to consult
about this room's "wet paint."

I sit here in this corner marked
by the words, "You're old and done,"
but still, my life's not nearly parked,
and age can't be let won.

I'm not as young as I once was.
An athlete, I just can't be.
I'll have to find some new great cause.
Olympics: That's not me.

My mind's still here. So, there is that.
Thank God for such a gift.
I still can write, and paint in matte,
and talk, to others lift.

I get distracted by much noise.
My mind may wander off.
What's diff'rent then from little boys,
who run, and play, and chase a butterfly.

I know some things a little bit:
Spanish, Sign Language, editting.
But what careers are near my mitt,
that I could do something?

Are retail sales my "cup of tea?"
Or tea my tale to tell?
A guide to show you where to be,
or a guard to keep things well?

O, Lord, please lead me in the way,
that I should walk, today.
Please, help me know to do and say,
"Your Glory on display."

by Jay O’Toole
on September 6th, 2022