Actually, I've known it for quite some time now
But for so many others its new news.
So I'd like to thank You (God) for yesterday
As much as I do for today.

And I ask that you (my friends) pause, but not stop,
To think about some of the wild things I've survived
Before my greatest challenge.
And believe me,
Death is the only challenge we won't sit and laugh about
[Or relive]

But we can find joy in it,
Because there'll be enough kind words to create a new dictionary.
Kind words that I need now, more than ever

Kind words keep us alive
Physically. . . mentally. . . spiritually.

I found out I'm dying
And when I woke this morning I wept.
And I laughed aloud and I started to sing
(but remembered that I couldn't, so I danced instead)
And I whistled a tune as I made my bed

I threw open the window and let out a cheer
(actually I just smiled, so no one could hear)

I exercised, ate and dressed (after I washed)

Then I looked in the mirror and gave a wink.
"Not bad for a body that's survived another day,
I'm so blessed to get older"
Is all I could think.

I didn't bother reading the Obituary
(Because I knew I wasn't there)
Instead I clipped my fingernails
And neatly styled my hair

I found out I'm dying
And that I have been since Day Number One.

So I spend little time regretting my life
Because I'd rather spend the time having fun.

-Sporty King-

reprinted from I Found Out I'm Dying:
A Celebration of Life in Spoetry
Limited Edition