Fred B. Baker, II

TICK TOCK

Gathered in white not knowing why
The infant gives a muted cry
The cloth, his work soon done
The clock strikes the hour one

Things so new the child will reach
Parents awkwardly try to teach
Boring minutes are so few
The clock strikes the hour two

Summer brings a joyous fun
Playmates at a constant run
Pleasures all come free
The clock strikes the hour three

First love breaks the heart
Unaware tis just the start
Life promises so much more
The clock strikes the hour four

Wedding bells ring wild
Followed by the unions’ child
Feels so great to be alive
The clock strikes the hour five

Now two girls and a boy
Argue over every toy
Add a dog into the mix
The clock strikes the hour six

Grandpa was the first to leave
Asking all not to grieve
He has gone into his heaven
The clock strikes the hour seven

Now there is an empty nest
Together still, they are blessed
Soon each child will have a mate
The clock strikes the hour eight

Grandchildren provide a thrill
Spoiling each one at will
Aging makes the better wine
The clock strikes the hour nine

Retirement time will soon be here
Plans of travel fill the year
The Eiffel Tower and Big Ben
The clock strikes the hour ten

Aches and pains become routine
The body a tired machine
The day ends shortly after seven
The clock strikes the hour eleven

Memories please the most
Until finally giving up the ghost
For meaning of life philosophers delve
The clock strikes the hour twelve