On top of the wardrobe it sits
Covered in dust, filled with old bits
The box of destiny
This box that follows me
A little red book from Army days
A sat on a bike photo from teenage ways
The first bath pictures with a newborn son
Carefree on a beach, instant snaps of fun
A black and white photo of a family affair
Mother, me and my siblings sat there
Memories recalled at the lift of a lid
Things that were done back then as a kid
Old certificates make me feel proud
Remembering when they were first read aloud
All now pushed to the back of the mind
If needed in the box I can find
Days when it feels like a poisoned chalice
On others it feels like a memory palace
The box of remembrance
That gives life a semblance
Of peace love and calm
Of conquered alarm
The box still evolves
And my life revolves
