One And All Poem by Robert Tomlinson

On reaching three score year and ten, a high, fair land,
Sweet reason hails you loud, come see your stock,
How so you've reached this peak with some in hand,
So often mocked.

Now close your eyes, now picture all those friends,
Enemies too, yes ev'ry single soul,
A piece of each, these folk did to you lend,
That made you whole.

The warmth you shared with allies stood good stead,
Bitter foes ‘quipped you with nerves of steel,
Virtuous may have scolded, conjured dread,
Each made you real.

Remember all, scowl, frown, her silly grin,
A mother's balm, a father's growl, when riled
How you fought back, took it on the chin,
Forever smiled.