Middle Age  

"You have reached middle age."
"Yes, so I have."
No big deal, no cause for rage.
Still he was blunt
It was a shock!
But why? I'm still vigorous, strong as a rock.

There is a lack in me since his statement.
I have not done
What the world must sit up and notice.
But I am having fun.

Shall I quit my comfort, my security,
Accept my new maturity?
Or give up
This struggle where I shall not
Exceed mediocrity?
Shall I try anew what I think I can do,
What is daring and true?

I am a coward; I hesitate,
Tolerate, procrastinate.
I must break out of this easy comfort,
This middle-class trap, this pap
Of barbecues and a cottage,
Of lawns to trim.

© 2006 Anton Capri