Before A Grin Of Satisfaction Lifts Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Let's face it.
When someone says,
'You look good for 'your' age! '
The emphasis is on 'your'!
That is not to be interpreted,
As a sign that you appear decades younger!
You do not!
And the next time someone says that to you...
Do not begin blushing,
As a customary response!
Stop and think...
'What age do they think I am? '

Some of us who have heard that comment,
Seem to think the reference is made
Because we look as if we are still waiting
To be asked to the senior prom!
AGAIN!
When in fact...
I've seen dinosaurs in museums,
And I am amazed how well they look!
And they have been well preserved,
Bones and all!

Had you thought...
When someone expresses,
'You look good, for 'your' age! '
They are not thinking,
'My God,
That relic is 'still' around?
And walking unaided...
Making eye contact without assistance?
Am I witnessing a miracle or what? '

Those thoughts should first enter 'your' mind,
BEFORE a grin of satisfaction...
Lifts your wrinkled cheeks!
The ones on your behind,
And those on your face!
And 'if' a younger person says that to you...
You return one of the most ugliest looks you can!
Immediately you know they are thinking...
'I will never get that old and 'still' enjoy my life! '