This geek gave up
And got old
As he realized
Nothing is
Sacred

When the things
Which seemed
So important
Just didn’t bring joy
Anymore

Like they had
In youth
Feeling new
With friends who stood
Right beside him

Now alone
At home
Rarely leaving
Since learning that love
Meant defeat –

Another sad wish
Coming true
Few adults
Had warned
Were consuming

Where others
Ignored
Growing empty
By working again
Skipping breaks,

Seeking happier days
Never spent
Always missing
What’s fun
For us losers

Like toys unwrapped
Being vintage
Or playing
Those games
Really long.

I’m still that kid
Deep inside
But obscured
Through age
Trailing sickness,

Telling my wife
Watching movies
Reminds me
How special
It was.

• J. Pigno