The canes and walkers can stay on the rack,

The diapers too.

Caregivers who mean well,

I’ve got no time for you,

Nothing personal,

But I want to go for it under my terms

For as long as I can.

I’d prefer to wipe myself,

Cook for myself, and

Walk with a loose style

That defies every

Meter per second squared of gravity

The heavens can throw my way,

Long living with independence.