We grow older together, you and I.

Our gait has slowed,

And hills are harder to climb.

But we still dance in sometimes wild abandon;

You can manage occasional astounding leaps.

We spend our days quietly now,

With me at my writing or with a book,

You always at my side.

I know that when I do go out,

You worry and fret more,

So that we are both relieved when I return.

Always, always in my heart

Is the knowledge that you are aging faster.

I try to fill our time remaining

With all the love and gratitude I can give.

You have made life beautiful and wonderful and joyful

In ways I never anticipated.

Thank you, my beloved companion.