It barely misses a day and when it isn't there, I think I have been imagining it all along. Maybe I'm entering the lost world of dementia or Alzheimer's but I find that hard to imagine with my brain filled with writing, teaching and keeping up with my active family. My friends say "you don't look your age but seldom do they say, "you don't act your age." They could be telling an untruth. I hope not.
This intrusive thing I'm talking about is the way younger persons treat me. "Let me help you with that, honey. Well here comes grandma," from the mouth of a smart mouth first class jerk. I felt like hitting him with one of my carry-ons but I didn't have the strength to lift it. "Would this table be better for you?" As I have walked three steps. The waitress' voice can be heard out in the parking lot, "sugar, what would you like to drink?" I don't answer right away and she turns to my husband, "what does she usually drink?"
And then there are the non-verbal activities--the young man stands there holding the door and I'm just half way across the parking lot. I hurry as much as my Parkinson's and arthritis will allow. Than I feel I must make a silly remark to hide my embarrassment. There are other times when you wonder if you have become invisible They pretend you aren't there talking about their gigs and data matter. Once I spoke up and asked if they had downloaded their 2Gs of data into their new 09 IPhone and they looked at me as if I were from outer space and continued their conversation.
All this to say treat everyone as an individual. Just because they have gray hair and wobble as they walk, it doesn't mean they are old in their minds. You may be surprised at how much we know that never crossed your mind. Have a meaningful conversation with a senior citizen today. You might enjoy it! And keep calling us honey and sugar and holding doors for us. We know you mean well, except for the jerk on the airplane!
Darlene Eichler
Writer, Memoirist
Teacher, Blogger
