From the recording The River
Borrowed time pays tribute to the life and times of Hector Audet, my father. He was a family man, an Engineer, an outdoors enthusiast, an artist, a sportsman, and more. At age 56 he was diagnosed with cancer, but the treatment did not provide a cure. He passed away 2 years later after a difficult battle. He worked many years with a view to enjoying an active retirement, but that wasn't in the cards for him.
I should add that Hector Audet is a descendant of Nicolas Audet dit Lapointe who immigrated to New France around 1664, settling near Quebec City. He married Magdeleine Despres in 1670, who was one of the "King's Daughters" (filles du roi). As one of roughly 600 women, Magdeleine sailed from France to help with colonization of New France, as the British were more successful colonizing the Eastern Seaboard.
Lyrics
Borrowed Time, Marc Audet
The plant whistle screams at four twenty five
Buses lumber down the streets
The men step off, and walk to home and relaxation
Dinner ready, children at their feet
But the east wind blew, kicking up the river
A steady rain came in time
I remember, the water started rising
Wet feet, cold hands, teared eyes
Fifty six was his age of last commitment
Hung up his suit and tie for good
Aimed for a time of final relaxation
But not to the maker, who called the day
I remember the way it used to be
Simple times, long days
Curling rinks, … golf carts and fishing
Children home, blistered hands
A quiet man, cool deep waters
Lived with few regrets
Planned the years, planned for family
Beared the weight of time and sweat
I remember, what he said to me
Silent words, steady hands
I remember, that’s how it had to be
Calling life, borrowed time
Fifty two, I sit in sad reflection
Many years past the time I said good bye
Quiet moments, thoughtful recollection
I live the moments by his side
I remember, the way it used to be
Simple times, long days
I remember, that’s how it had to be
Calling life, borrowed time
I remember, what he said to me
Silent words, steady hands
I remember, when the water started rising
Wet feet, cold hands, teared eyes.