When

When all is said,
when all is done

When the kids are gone,
or gone to bed

When you're sure
you're certain
but certainly unsure

When the past grows dim
and the photos fade

When there's no one to call,
and the phone doesn't ring

When the stuggle is over
and the calm and peace draw near

When life, and living
are before you
and nothing you "wouldn't do over again"
(but surely wouldn't) is behind you

When you feel your heartbeat,
or hear the rhythm
of
your own breathing

its then you know,
at the very least

you are,
alive.

m.