Mortality

Mortality

I always supposed I would live forever.
My immortality was always assumed,
Making the right choices for my body's health,
eat the right foods, leave alcohol, drugs alone.
Maintain a positive attitude throughout
My body is aging, beyond my control.
My machinery is slowing with fatigue.
I can't work as I used to, running is gone.
Sleeping is longer, exercise is shorter.
Is my heart wearing out with each thumping beat?
Do I hear petite raspy sounds in my lungs?
Is my blood flow forgetting extremities?
Staying in my head, my thoughts become scary.
Doctors are invasive but necessary.
Each appointment brings me sufficient relief,
not cancer or lung disease or a bad heart.
So, I breathe easier but I realize
I'm closer to the end than the beginning.
(sigh)

19 lines