Reflections on Retirement

You meant to retire years ago

The weft and warp of work

Pulled you tightly

Others left early

As they promised

55 on the dot

Decades later

You remain

Their support

Fulfilling unimaginable tasks

With brilliance

Never seeking the spotlight

Rare accomplishments

Reflected in others’ praise

Shyly accepted

It is time to recline

Lounge

Put your feet up

Everyone asks

“What will you do?”

Be lazy

No need to report

Meetings adjourned

Boards dispersed

Relax

For the first time in your life

You can

Michael Brown, Desperately Optimistic, 2006

Stainless steel and aluminum: Found objects: lounge

chair, 2 lawn chairs, 20 Budweiser cans.

Dimensions variable

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