Poems by John Peter Read

I've washed my hands of religion
rather than let it brainwash me.
I'm no longer a prisoner being held captive
by those bars of lies and deceit.

Religions build walls to divide us
holding God hostage is their way
Preaching the only way to heaven
is too believe in everything they say.

But I'm no longer a prisoner of religion
my mind has been set free.
I believe in goodness and spiritual love
and that God resides in me.

The years are taking their toll.
Another birthday has now arrived.
People you meet say you're still looking young.
With a smile, you wink and say, "Nice try."

You have a few more aches and pains.
In fact, a different one each day.
Your eyesight's none too clever,
And your hearing has started to fade.

Your memory has gone on vacation,
Although you no longer travel too far.
You try to avoid meeting old friends
Because nowadays you forget who they are.

Wrinkles are appearing like magic.
Your hair is silver and grey.
When you wake, you praise the Lord
Just to have survived for another day.

Yes, birthdays used to be special.
When you're old, they're not as much fun.
You no longer want to rejoice and party.
Your mind's still willing, but your body has gone.

I remember when I was small and cool,
I was always playing truant from school.
My mum used to say,
"You'll regret it one day
When you grow up to become a fool."

Now I'm old; the damage is done.
How I wish I'd listened to Mum.
If I could turn back time,
I'd study hard and toe the line
Instead of acting foolish and dumb.

Now let that be a lesson to one and all
That life is more than just having a ball.
It was great having fun
When I was young,
But I wish I'd spent more time in the school hall.