Reflections: An Old Man Revisits His Life. A Poetic Odyssey

Author:
Audrey Hunt
Updated date:
Nov 28, 2021

What is your purpose here? Master teacher, Audrey Hunt, tempts us to self-reflect through her poetry.

“The journey into self-love and self-acceptance must begin with self-examination… until you take the journey of self-reflection, it is almost impossible to grow or learn in life.” – Iyanla Vanzant

Photo by Andrew George Funk Grandfather of Julie Crosbie. Julie was my best friend and I miss her.
Audrey Hunt

Introduction

The older man sits alone, lost in his reflection of weakness, sealed by sorrow for the lost years he longs for. Does he have the right to claim the moral high ground? Despite misguided choices that still ravish his consciousness, he still carries hope.

You and I can never go back. We can't correct or change the past - or can we? Can we alter our history? Einstein thought so. But, even so, what's important is how we grow and learn from the choices we make.

If the truth is known, each of us will identify with the older man in one way or the other. As you unravel each line of the older man's reflections, you may discover a bit of yourself hidden between the lines.

An Old Man Reflects on His Life

He walks alone his time is short

He basks in memories of the past

Innocence, naivety, choices, mistakes

Serve a fools fairy tale

Reflections of another time

Weave lost cobwebs in the mind

Have I served my purpose here

Doubting clouds run rampant

Seeds of greatness are within

All have entered without sin

Seeking virtue conducted by nature's voice

Mentoring mankind walking blind

Transparent life its ups and downs

Lay before me patterns bold

Have I passed the endless tests

Will my soul be laid to rest

Have I Served My Purpose Here?

Examine memories days are ending

Begging for another chance

Repentance struggling to forgive

Others and himself

Tears longing for his loved ones

Pierce his wrinkled, leathery cheeks

Friends and family went before him

Reflections of another time, lived long ago

Search for the young boy living deep within

Ignited memories pierce old eyes

Inviting youth to join once more

Relive, re-dream, a new King Arthur

Wrapping up mind's endless chatter

Evolves the capacity for understanding

Viewing the past through maturities lessons

Stepping stones to self-actualization and fulfillment

Wrapping up mind's endless chatter.
pixabay CCO Creative Commons

'Tis not the end but the beginning

Lifes scars turn into stars

Reflecting bonds with gratitude, all is well, all is well

The message is clear, love transcends all

I am ready.

Take Time to Reflect

As we reflect on how we have lived thus far, let us focus on loving others. Think back to the endless times you have shown unending patience, as this is one of the most powerful ways to demonstrate love. And let's remember to love ourselves as well. It is difficult, if not impossible, to love others when we ignore self-love.

Reflecting on our lives is a healthy way to assess where we've been and where we want to go. Taking a few moments to do this regularly helps us discover a greater connection to ourselves.