The Challenge

My life is in crisis - My story I tell...
My days are a nightmare - my wife's are as well!
My hormones are upset. I'm bored and I'm tired -
My world's upside down ever since I retired!

I lie in bed mornings just planning my day.
I look at my wife. She says, "Mate, go away!"
"What's happened to romance? And why won't you talk?"
But she turns her back -- says, "The dogs need a walk!"

Then I got excited! I'd get fit again!
I'd jog every day in the dark, fog and rain!
I bought top equipment. I put on an act!
I fell in the street and I couldn't get back!

I got a bright notion. I'd paint house and sell!
I painted and painted (my wife's car as well)!
When I finished painting, I called Real Estate.
He told me politely, "Get a Painter in, Mate!"

Twelve months have gone past since I gave work away.
I bawled out the Boss, and said, "You keep the pay!"
I ring now each morning. I beg for a start!
The phone never answers. I'm down in me heart!

An idea then came to me, better by far!
I'll sit by the Highway - sell fruit from my car!
"The traffic will kill you!" - Well, so says my mate!
I tell her I'll quit - when I turn eighty-eight

Copyright; Raymon Essery
MULLUMBIMBY NSW 2482 (24.9.97)