Settle My Affairs (poem) by John Herlihy on AuthorsDen

Settle My Affairs
by John Herlihy → (All Poetry by John Herlihy)
Thursday, February 12, 2026 Rated "G" by the Author.

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Settle My Affairs by John Herlihy The time has come to settle my affairs, Before the inevitable takes me unawares. Normally we give little thought to tomorrow, Until we realize that life is but on borrow. After all, tomorrow may never come, Our days numbered, we add up the sum. Still, that fact doesn't a full life preclude, When tomorrow arrives, we feel wowed. So many things that are left undone, So many intrigues that are left unspun. So many places where we still want to go, So many things that I still want to know. There in my notebook more days to count, More mountains to climb, more peaks to mount. More happiness to enjoy, more misery to endure, More love to express with such feelings pure. Still alive blessed and ready for the day, I listen to what God may have to say. For speak he does we need only listen, There in the distance as night stars glisten. - - - - Copyright © John Herlihy Saturday 25 October 2025

Reviewed by Jms Bell

Reviewed on February 24, 2026

YES, OF COURSE YOU ARE RIGHT AND TO TELL YOU THE TRUTH; I AM MORE CONCERNED ABOUT WHAT HAPPENS TO MY 'SOUL' ON THE OTHER SIDE THAN WHAT HAPPENS TO MY 'DUST' OVER HERE. SO...I DON'T HAGGLE TOO LONG WITH WHAT I MISSED OUT ON OR DIDN'T GET DONE. ALL THAT JUST DOESN'T MATTER, AS I EMBRACE YOUR LAST STANZA, TOTALLY AND COMPLETELY. AMEN. LOVE, BLESSINGS AND FAITH...HIS+INSPIRATIONS

Reviewed by Ronald Hull

Reviewed on February 16, 2026

By just thinking about it and writing this poem, you are well on your way to settling your affairs. Since you are healthy who knows what accomplishment you might achieve before your final day of seeking.

My death plans fairly in order, I am unloading a lot of unneeded artifacts in my house by selling them.

My housemates want me to put them out on the curb for trash pick up or interloper shopping. They argue with me while I'm getting good money for them and giving them another life with people on the Internet.

Why have my executor have to get rid of all of that stuff?

Ron

PS. Why I have been unable recently to read all of your poems and make comments.

Reviewed by Odin odin@aflx.com

Reviewed on February 13, 2026

For me, I think your getting affairs in order may be a bit premature. You've still got the imagination and a challenging mind that will forswear the next iteration of your existence. Maybe a little preparation, but treat it like the extra-rich sweet you keep in the freezer, knowing to take it out is to consume it.

Reviewed by Rebecca McKeehan

Reviewed on February 12, 2026

With all my recent health issues, this poem speaks volumes. As you say, life is but borrowed and yes, God does speak if we will but listen. A very wise write.

Rebecca