Being Older
I’m older
But I’m still human.
Being elderly doesn’t mean
I’m stupid
Or uneducated
Or incapable of having feelings.
I feel physical pain
Like everyone else
I’m sensitive to excessive heat
Excessive cold.
I cry real tears just like
Younger people.
I laugh too,
Just like you.
Does my age define who
Or what I am then?
It does to a certain extent-
I may move a little slower
Be less active than before.
But I still have hopes and desires too
Just like you.
I hope that my children
Will be healthy and successful
Kind and compassionate
Good to themselves and one another
Become lovers of peace and justice
I desire to be cozy and cared for
To live in harmony with everyone
Most of all, not be
Labeled as something
Inferior just because of my white hair.
I envy no one but the pious
And I bear malice towards none
Therefore, judge me not for my limitations
But admire my perseverance
To simply get
Out of bed and face each day
The best I can.
I may be older it’s true
But I’m still human
Just like you.
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I often wonder if, when younger people are at our age, they'll be able to accept and cope with assistance in their daily lives, economic planning, or life in facilities.