A Tinker's Damn

The grave is just a breath away
I cheated death again today
though how, I cannot clearly say,
but I won't moan and cry.

Now I can look back on my life
and proudly boast of kids and wife
believing I was satisfied,
though that might be a lie.

What life won't offer some would take;
and most agree that's a mistake
for every action leaves a wake
of questions asking why?

Still, after all is said and done
I know I am my fathers son
and couldn't give a Tinker's damn
that death has passed me by.

          by Eugene Matthews