To exist, a living thing must be born
Whether animal, plant or some other
This marks the initial stage it builds on
And heralds its life that follows after

After its birth, there is the growth process
Which requires adequate nutrition
In this vital stage, there must be success
In order to attain maturation

A living thing in full maturity
Displays its species characteristics
These serve to define its identity
In testimony of its uniqueness

Living things are programmed internally
To keep their species continuation
To make this action a reality
They engage in acts of reproduction

Living things cannot live eternally
The process of decay cannot be stopped
Bodies that once were quite firm and healthy
With time they become shriveled and dried up

The action of decay is precursor
That signals the final stage which is death
For living organisms wherever
This occurs when they take their final breath