THE BEST THING IN LIFE

The old guy tried to think of something good he`d done......

THE BEST THING IN LIFE

 

Hunkered down by the truck

Just catch`n little shade

He`d had it for the day

At eighty eight and count`n

This decrepit old dude was done

 

His clothes were ragged and dirty

His life was full of holes

Nuthin ever went right

Since he was in his teens

 

Well, you have heard the story

Drink ,  women and cards

Leading a dissolute life

Self indulgence all the way

 

He never served any time

He was glad of that

His life was empty always

Drag`n  bottom all the way

 

If only he`d done something

To make his kids feel proud

Hell !  They`d felt good to have a dad

Just to kick around  

 

He never done a single thing

To make his life worth while

He just kept make`n big mistakes

Then he remembered and broke in to a smile

He was ---- a United States Marine

 

------Eagle Cruagh

Reviews

[emmajoy]

I like the style of this post, the casual speech, the self-regret (or should that be self-deprecation?) and then, that wonderful ending .. a sense of pride!

I'm a Brit, 'don't know too much about American military but, I have heard/read of a Marine's strong and deep sense of belonging to a band of very special men. So, i suppose this man felt that, in spite of everything else he'd pretty well failed in, he knew once a Marine, always a Marine - and, felt better for it.

Yes, this is sad but also just a little triumphant: ' Then he remembered and broke in to a smile .. '

[Tracie Skarbo]

A lovely ode to a life passed too fast...sounds like this character had more to do and lingering dreams, perhaps he will get his chance the next time 'round.

:)

Tigra

[emma]

I love this poem!
There's a sad desperation about this man, that I guess we all feel at times.
For me the ending was the most poignant, how sad that all he had to feel good about was a distant memory that nobody ever appreciated.

[James K. Blaylock]

It is so sad to look back on our lives and only see those wasted years. All of the could have beens and what ifs can't change a single thing. Because we only get one shot, no do overs fo anyone! Great work.

jkb

[Debra Stevens Edwards (..]

This is a very good piece it really hit home with me after watching HBO's " Taking Chance. I have the greatest respect for all those who serve but Marines are the best of the bunch. Nicely stated.
Hugs Debby

[Jen]

Lovely poem, has a dark feeling to it.

[Chaotica]

"His life was full of holes"
love that line.

[Lady leah]

Very nicely penned, great write