Where the tears go

More than thirty years have passed since I penned my first poem. There have been only a few since then. But today, influenced by my dear friend, Cameron Dockery and a rather melancholic mood and an empty house, I decided to try again to write as a poet.
Below you will find this creation, it is called Where the tears go. I think of it as a work in progress, let me know what you think...

Where the tears go
by J Hirtle

The old man stood bent at the waist.

The autumn of his life

Declared by the lines on his face.

His hands unable to conceal their constant tremble.

Ten thousand days, maybe more, we have had

Since he first enlightened this lyricist, yet but a lad.

He has always seemed old to me

A friend none the less he will always be.

From the beginning I knew he was wise.

Today I asked my question, as oft I do,

"Where do tears go when they depart my eyes?"

I know they wander down my cheeks

When my emotions I cannot disguise

So tell me dear sir,

"Where do tears go when they depart my eyes?"

Without a word he looked at me

A glimpse of sadness broke upon his face

For he already knew the reason I inquired.

The doctor’s words had no hope to lend,

It seems my time here is nearing the end.

A creeping smile slowly began to appear,

He told me sagely,

You have nothing to fear.

Soon you will stand in the place He prepared for you.

There you will see the glorious truth-

Tears never die or go away

They turn to mist

To be used another day

Soon you will understand

He knows every one that has ever dared to fall

And He will stretch out His hand

And gently wipe them all.

That my dear friend

Is where the tears go.