It happened again this week, a quick impatient and dismissive glance from a young person.

I am still surprised by this. I got old while I was not paying attention.

I am a bit shocked by my actual age and seasoned appearance, when I actually pay attention to me.

All of my me’s are still inside this old husk.

All the hair vitamins and retinol in the world will not stop this march to O L D.

Elders should not be dismissed.
Their youth is still in there…

that fussy baby, clingy toddler, scared school girl, fiesty teenager, diligent student, insecure wife, determined teacher, terrified mother and grieving daughter are all still present under the old layer you see.

I am surrounded by old people here in this little mountain town.

I am surprised each time I realize I am one of them.

My new tribe.

Lots of aches and ailments along with a wealth of wisdom.

We are still here, just further along the journey than the youth are.

FLOW