It was the night before 40

Poem at 40 

By: Christina Christensen  Oct. 3rd 2023 

It was the night before 40 

And all through the home

All the children were stirring 

I thought 

“Just leave me alone!”

I wanted to pout 

I wanted to sneer 

I couldn’t believe  

That this was the year

The year 

I could dream

Of a much younger face 

I could still, perhaps, run 

But not keep the pace 

So, I think to myself 

It will all be ok 

At least 

If anyone asks me 

That’s what I’ll say 

It’s all good 

At least I can laugh 

Though on my food 

I could choke 

And when it’s time to deliver I can’t remember the joke 

Mostly, 

I have wonderful memories 

With still much more time

And, look at me go! 

I can still make words rhyme! 

I can even say: 

I like myself. 

Both inside and out. 

Much closer to believing it 

Where before I would doubt 

I really am grateful 

For all that I have 

I looked myself in the eyes

And said 

“This isn’t half bad” 

I have kids that love me 

Friends and family feel the same

Beautiful moments surround me 

There’s really no shame 

To be happy at 40 

I can smile at my life  

And I’ve lived long enough

You can trust my advice 

I have quite a lot. 

I wouldn’t wish it away  

So, with that 

Now I’m 40 

And it’s more than ok.