POEMS

My Runner’s Body

Look at my legs
So firm and thin.
It’s running I thank
For the shape that I’m in.

See my calves.
Don’t they look great?
Would you believe
I’m past 48?

My waist looks just fine.
My neck’s long and lean.
I weigh no more today
Than I did at 15.

But dear Mother Nature ain’t always so fair.
She causes me pain and loads of despair.
For miles of hard running, she commands a high price
On ten body parts that don’t look so nice.

So look all you want at my waist, hips and knees.
If you dare take a picture, I’ll even say cheese.
But please don’t you take the wind from my sails
By taking a look at my runner’s toenails.