In the mirror I see you in me,
eyes with kindness, warmth, joie de vivre – timeless.
Thinning skin, imperfect teeth, fading hair,
a body that has felt pain, angst, love, fury, joy..
all of it.
Held in hidden places, or not
Often I feel urgent for more time
to work through the list.
If I die at the age you did,
I have 6 more years.
Make acts of kindness for redemption,
for purpose, for meaning, for utility.
Beautify the garden,
donate to critical causes,
Join actions for peace, climate and truth.
Love the people I’m with,
conserve energy and water,
be useful.
Facing the finish line,
I take advice.
Do what it takes to be strong
in body and mind.
Be ready
peaceful
thankful
Love
Anne Smith is a psychologist, activist, artist and poet.
She lives in Melbourne in a timber cottage with her husband and cat.
She is a Buddhist nature-lover
who longs for peace.