Looking Very Old,  I Suppose

I’m old
I know

but don’t feel
as old as I look

this is what ‘old’
feels like – to me

slower – less flexible
less physical strength

less stamina
more frequent naps

injury healing takes longer
but eventually succeeds

eyesight waning
focusing a frequent pain

surprised by the ancient guy
reflected in surfaces I stroll by

but never feeling
as old as all THAT!

–LE – 1/9/25