by Cpl. Robert L. Cook
Jan. 1942–Sept. 1945
Now I’m not one
that made a lot of dough;
a halfway decent livin’
was my goal.
I struggled thru
many skinny paydays,
a payin’ bills
as they did unfold.
Now that did not leave
much hangin’ over
to tuck away
for my body and soul.
So when you think
about retirement,
make money
your main-most goal.
Those little things
you cannot live without?
Well, you might have to
give up a thing or two.
Be sure you have
a stash
of good old US cash
and maybe an annuity
or two.
The way this country
is a goin’,
a buck is not a buck
you can bet.
Before your close the door
and set aside your chores,
be sure you got a lot
of what it takes
to carry on.
* * *
The author: Robert Lin Cook served with Regimental Weapons Co. (2d-2d) from 1942–44, at Guadalcanal
and Tarawa during a 33-month overseas tour.
Robert's latest
book: Poems By A Marine
Retirement III
Click here to
read a review of Robert's novel.
