Dear Older American

“Dear Older American, I want you to know how much you have improved the quality of my life. Today I was driving down the street. You were sauntering uptown, your white hair shining in the sun, a smile on your face. You waved when I went by, though you had no idea whom I was. On my first job as a cashier, I was nervous and scared. The line was long and everyone was impatient. You let the others go first because you didn’t mind waiting. When your turn came you said: “Take your time. My, but you have pretty eyes”. I could have kissed you. You say, “have a nice day”, in the elevator and talk about the weather. I can tell by your gnarled hands that you’ve done a lot of hard work and I admire that. You have an aura of calmness that so many of my generation will never know in their mad rush for money and status. Thanks, Older American, for being there.”

Picture taken by Elise Capener (photo bud in my program)