I
hate growing older.
I
do not enjoy upper arms sagging,
swaying
when I wave goodbyes.
I
hate viewing the once perky bust-line
now
gazing despondently at the ground.
Why
did I have to become old, my once willowy
body
relaxing far more than necessary.
I
try to ignore it, to picture myself in my mind
the
way I want to be, wish to be, dream to be,
but
knowing the reality deep inside.
If
I ignore mirrors, reflective windows,
I
can carry on the image within my head,
avoid
the truth that sometimes slaps me in the face.
That
glimpse can be a shock, send tremors
skulking
down my spine, chill my soul,
paralyze
my psyche, and bring tears to my eyes.
I
remark that I am a twenty-three-year-old
trapped
in this sixty-five-year-old body,
craving
to caress life in a spirited way.
Rose
Lefebvre©
Most of the time I fully embrace who I am right now. My body may not be perfect, but most everything still works.My hair is white, but at least I still have hair.Far from perfection but good enough for me.
ReplyDeleteRose, I can relate. A few days ago while cleaning out my "art cabinet" I came across old photos which showed a far different me. Even found several pin-ups (age 19) that my sister, Anna, and I took while visiting in San Francisco. Arrrgggghhh! Alice
ReplyDeleteHi Rose,
ReplyDeleteI sure can identify with your poem. Someone even commented on my saggy arms and I was upset. I think when we aren't feeling well with these colds and coughs and flu that you feel older. I hope you are feeling better soon.
I once taught a boy in Aldergrove, B.C. with the same last name as you. His first name was Maurice and I am wondering if you are related. It's not a common name and he was a brilliant boy.
Take Care, Karen
I know what you mean, Rose, but weirdly, I'm more comfortable in my skin and with who I am more than I used to be. But I have those days too.
ReplyDeletexo,
rue
I'm sure that many of us can identify with this! Hope you feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you haven't been feeling well, Rose. Getting older is not for sissies. That is what my Mom used to say. In this society that values looks over substance, I will take substance any day. We have earned our wrinkles and our sags and bags. I find a face lined with character much more beautiful than any other. We need to embrace our 'old age'. It is a privilege denied to many. Love your poem :) Sending hugs xo Karen
ReplyDeleteRose, you said it girl! I just said to my hubby the other day, "why do boobies have to get saggy?" What was the good Lord thinking? lol! I know that our bodies grow old so that we can accept death, but it's not all fun and games. :) Hope you are feeling better!!
ReplyDeletehugs,
Jann