I met my younger self today

He insisted it was at the pub

He needed to be comfy and had much to say

I declined his offer of a pint

Declaring I’m really good with the water, thanks anyway

He countered, come on have a beer, it’s what we do

I told him, one day he will know, he lives in the darkness of extreme

I remind him of the expression of two ears and one mouth

Wishing him mindful awareness, that might cure his deafness

He told me stories that I already know, saying it’s all just about fun

I spoke about all the untold waste, not just of time and money

But of lost days and unexplored capability, potential and provision

I looked my younger self firmly in the eyes

He hadn’t heard me, there was no thank you

I smiled, knowing that sometime in the future, 

A time will come when he will say

I wished I’d met you earlier