I have found in the evening of my life
Experiences that are life altering
Writing has been lifesaving 
Decades in the making

Sharing spoken words out loud
Is new, now a year hence
A gift that is life giving
Shared with others 

Finding love when I was not looking
When I was discovered 
In a simple conversation
That has grown deeper by the day

She has become a loving partner
Where comfort is given
In times where it is needed most
And I return in kind

My children all survivors and fighters
Are making their own path
Refusing apathetic temptation
In these extraordinary times

While anxiety rides my shoulders 
It does not stop the next step
In my journey, like my children
I fight, I survive events

Swinging carefully at targets
Always aware of what is at risk
Quixote may be my guide
Hope is always one step away

No matter the chaos
I feel compelled to risk
The next battles 
With writers in kind, my brethren 

We are the voice
We will not be silenced
Our voices will outlast
All attempts to intimidate us

In the evening of my life
Who could ask for more.

12/15/2025

Posted on 12/15/2025
Copyright © 2025 James Zealy