a small memorial

we aren't the ones who'll end up with the gold
a little silver and the chance for rest
a little kindness and a little zest
a chance to grow both happy and quite old
the ending of the story's not foretold
but we may hope that all is for the best
life is for real it's not some fiendish test
we take it fiery and we take it cold
yet while we may we have to take the chance
to hear the music see the lovely sights
and smile at lichens growing on the wall
all take their place within the stately dance
enjoy the warmth of day and cool of nights
but know there comes a finish to the ball