Aging Well

The Resident Guest Shuffle, shuffle, tiny shuffles Flat feet, tiny shuffles, penguin-walk with bulky shoes. San Francisco Luxury hotel Resident guest at valet parking. A very old man wife dripping designer, Saint Laurent cape, inside out- label exposed. “Where is the car? My husband called.” “Yes, Ma’am. It’s on its way.” In it splashes, bright shiny red Ferrari F12 Berlinetta DMV plates taped to the window Used car, but new to him. Old man. Old money. Car turns off. Valet hands the keys. “Thank you.” “My pleasure.” A very old man, once tall now bent over. Shuffle, shuffle, tiny shuffles Flat feet, tiny shuffles, penguin-walk with bulky shoes. How will he drive? Is he able? Is it safe? Wife gets in – wine bottle in hand, a birthday gift for host. Valet closes door. “My pleasure.” A very old man, once tall now bent over gets in sports car seat. How he manages, I’m not sure. Vroom, crackle, barks the car. Catching the nearby motorhead’s ear. He puts it in gear. Old man – Oh wow! Look how he goes a red streak on Market Street Jennifer Elliott Copyright 2023