By Luis G. Dato
Janina, I’ve forgotten, What was it
You wrote addendum on your X’mas Card?
This business growing old is rather hard
On memory and mind, on nerve, on wit,
No walk-away from grandpa to stay fit
And Time’s assaults katabolistic ward;
Ever each day puts us on constant guard —
Or else, or else… the overdue exit!
And so, O daughter to our son, do not,
For heaven’s sake, do not take it too much to heart
That this our answer has been weeks deferred —
With bigger, more emissions life’ s distraught,
Justly to cause hot tears from eyes to start,
We will remember though and send you word.
February 11 , 1978
