Nobody Likes Me by Nancy Bushore

People 55 and over move to new locations for various reasons.  Sometimes the reason relates to climate, perhaps health concerns, some may relate to job or volunteer opportunities, some people are ready to downsize, some want to be closer to family.  People here seem to have moved to this area for any or all of those reasons.  I moved here along with a lot of others to be around people of similar age.  A senior community seemed like a good fit for me.

I’ve found, however, even though people here are by and large a friendly group, that I don’t always feel overwhelmingly welcome.  I know everyone here and they are familiar with me.  They just don’t seem to look forward to seeing me all that much.  I don’t think it’s because they think I’m all that different or unusual or odd.  I’m not quite sure what it is about me that seems less than desirable.

I guess I am pretty noticeable in this neighborhood.  Most everyone sees me every morning and usually in the evenings too.  I am around a lot and I’m loyal to those I become close to.  But I get the feeling that some people just wish I were not here at all or at least not around them.   I really can be seen everywhere in this neighborhood.  I’m considered fairly well known and kind of groovy, I enfold you in love and happiness,  I express a full life with many joyful times, my lineage is prolific, I progress over time.  Maybe no one likes me all that much, but I’m here to stay.  I won’t be leaving anytime soon.  I’ll repeat, I’m loyal, I’ll never leave you, I’ll be with you forever. 

As I mentioned, most people see me in the mornings and in the evenings.  If you’re like most people, you get up in the morning, you probably shower, dress, brush your teeth, comb your hair.  Some of you like to put lotion or makeup on your face.  Some of you shave.  Throughout all those activities, you are glancing in the mirror to ensure you look presentable.  It’s only natural that the image in the mirror reflects back to you and whispers, ‘Here I am!’    

Do you recognize me now?

Your groovy forever buddy,

Wrinkles