Beard

From a naive teenager

The stubble started growing

In patches

Covering the face

Hiding expressions

A sign of strength

Of being manly.

As the beard grew

Various styles gave solace

Changing color with time

Aging

Finer with age

Now hiding wrinkles

Acting brave

False courage

A grandchild now playing with it

Once a year.

A priceless smile

As his health fades

And grey turns to white.