ON AGING

by Hal O'Leary
(Wheeling, West Virgina USA)

On turning sixteen, it's that and "a half",
And try as they might to cover the gaffe,
It's said with a scowl, and never a laugh.


But at the four-o, it's just "thirty-nine".
The only thing aging then is the wine.
It's said sheepishly, as they raise the stein.


At eighty it's that and "one more almost",
When taking the stage to put forth a toast,.
With eyes all a glow, it's said with a boast.