Seconds at a Time

I sat down one day
And talked to Death.
Stared it right in the eyes,
Told me it was my time.
All I could say was
Give me 8 more seconds,
I need another turn in this rodeo.
Looking back with understanding
It sat there debating on what to do.
As I thought of what I haven't done,
Should have done.
For what seemed an eternity
The sands of time flowed.
Then, I don't know why,
Death stood up,
Motioned me forward
And stayed back in the shadows.
As I walk along today
I feel Death's grip on my shoulder.
A strong and steady hand,
A father helping his son walk for the first time.
Telling me I've been lucky.
But now we understand each other,
Almost an agreement.
I still talk to it now and then
My answer is still the same,
So we walk along my way,
Taking life 8 seconds at a time.