In your camp I presently live,
In your care is my whole body;
It is your command I am forced to obey,
And I have no choice but to flow with you.
I have no choice but to honor your order;
I have no will of my own to resist you.
At my age, I am standing on your stage,
A stage that sometimes appears like a cage;
A stage that provides no comfort to man,
A stage that is often accompanied by pain;
A stage that deprives many of true happiness,
A stage that causes many to lose their sight,
A stage that can leave many physically weak,
A stage that can make many impotent,
A stage where peace of mind becomes fragile,
A stage where no man can boast of lasting beauty,
A stage where time reveals its deceptive nature.
Currently, I am living beneath your leaking roof;
I no longer have the strength to plant my flower.
There is little I can do
But submit to your command.
Give me the grace to find peace in my submission;
As I submit, treat me with the kindness I need.
As I willingly submit, spare me from blindness;
As I submit, guide me to walk peacefully with you.
Teach me to embrace the changes you bring,
And grant me wisdom to endure your journey.
Dear Old Age,
Since I cannot escape your presence,
Let me live gracefully under your roof,
With dignity in my weakness,
Wisdom in my years,
Peace in my heart,
And gratitude for every remaining day.
