It is a proud old man

standing at the top of precarious steps

uncertain but determined

with a terminal diagnosis

pausing to stand up straight

     fix a crooked tie

     tug the bottom of his jacket

before being deliberate

     with every step down

          big-knuckled hand

               gripping a time-smoothed rail

staying on his feet

is the first victory

on his way to rejoin the eternal raucous party

committed to going out with a flourish.

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