I met a timekeeper

I met a timekeeper.

As I climbed up the steep steps of the clock tower and entered the top chamber, he welcomed me with a smile.

The pride in his eyes preceded his age.

The stories he had were far in number than the wrinkles on his face.

The job he was proud of even 40 years later.

Below him lay a market brimming with people from around the world, and he sat separated from the cacophony in his chamber, manning and winding a 105-year-old clock.  

Yet, the smile did not leave his face.

Yet, the solitary job did not dull his warmth.

Yet, the years gone by did not leave him bitter.