These Life Years

these life years . . .



      as the end comes near

            what we humbly fear

  are shown before us right here.





these life years . . .

     

    that runs through our ears

            as we stand erect to hear

  proclaims what you reared.





these life years . . .



      natured, loved, admired, held dear

            tortured, broken, jerked, and jeered

  shines our dulled brilliant celestial sphere.



these life years.