When did you grow old?

This happened when I was looking away,
This happened when I was busy with something else.
This happened when the only interaction we had was me asking you for money.
This happened when I wasn’t paying attention to you.

Did you just stop dyeing your hair or was it always grey?
How come your feet ache all of the sudden?
Why are you suddenly so exhausted after a day at office?
You do Yoga now?
You’re planning on retiring in a year?

They say you need the rest,
They say your blood pressure is high,
Your feet aren’t that strong anymore
And your heart is weak.

Im sorry Dada,
I’ve been so obsessed with growing up I didn’t notice you growing old.
Submissions, deadlines, targets, projects, meetings – all that took you away from me has been now taking me away from you.

I realize now the meaning of your words-“what matters is what you’re coming home to”.
I want to understand your feelings,
Appreciate your kindness,
Comprehend your stories,
Decode your expressions,
And learn of the person you were before you were my father.

I worry now about your safety when you travel alone,
If you have taken your medicine on time,
And if you are getting enough exercise.

Im sorry I wasn’t looking,
I promise never to look away again.