time and tide

I have learned, finally,
to slow down, if not to smell the roses,
at least to rest
between trips to the curb with heavy trashcans;

to pace myself, if not to
savor every moment,
at least to save my breath, which
along with the rest of me, is shorter now.

I realize that time is infinite, but it does not
tarry,

and there is nothing worth dying for

but love.