Panic.
 
The young think panic
Is a pimple
On the first date.
 
The older know panic
Is payday shopping---
Where is my purse?
And where's the loo?
Don't forget the gas!
What will I do
If I slip and fall?
 
The young think panic
Is when the footie gear
Is still in the wash.
 
The older know panic
Is sleepless nights----
What was that noise?
Why's the dog barking?
My heart's beating fast!
What will I do
If the burglar is armed?
 
The young think panic
Is not having wheels
On Saturday night.
 
The older know panic
Is travel alone---
Where is my ticket?
Is my bag on board?
Is this the right bus?
What will I do
If they forget to meet me?
 
The young know panic
Is being left out
Of current events.
 
The oldest know panic
Is having to do
the effortfull things---
Grandchildren's weddings,
A christening or two,
Funerals of friends,
The aches and pains
Of body and mind,
Bliss is not having to go,
Peace is not being last to leave.

Dawn McDonald
© October 2002

Midi: "Three Russian Songs - No.2"
Composer: Mikhail Glinka
Sequencer: Emma Shepherd