If the heavens had stairs touching the ground,
No man would look for redemption or fulfilment.
My life has seen joy, laughter, heart breaks, and tears.
With my rugged face and wisdom in my eyes,
I reflect on the years with a deep sigh.

Through years of labour, I have weathered life's storms.
For I have a sturdy and warm spirit.
I started out with dreams, so young and naive.
And through hard work and grit, I came to achieve more.

I recalled both sunny and overcast days.
There are both moments of triumph and moments of dismay.
I have scaled the peaks and faced valleys that are so deep.
And in every challenge, I found strength to keep going.

My tender heart swells with pride as I watch my boys and girls.
I have built a family and a league of friends,
I stand on a solid and opaque ground.
My family has given me love and support.
Despite every obstacle, I have conquered all fears.

Fifty years of learning, striving, and growing.
Of reaping rewards, and of not knowing tomorrow.
I have embraced each failure and each hard-earned gain.
These obstacles in life have carved my path and fueled my journey.

As I celebrated the milestone of five stairs,
The infinite nifty of life brings me true joy.
For in every wrinkle and grey hair on my bald head,
I have come to appreciate the beauty in life's tender care.

I salute the fifty-year-old man who is still going strong.
Whose spirit and passion carries him along.
To me, it is a life well-lived, a journey less traveled by many who came before me.
To almighty Lord, I owe my complete gratitude.
A man's life is always marked by eerie beginnings and true adversaries.

© Mwebe Morgan