I am Geriatric!
I am old,
And my experiences are gold
My skin may be wrinkled
It has faced the sun to give shade to others
My bones may be weak
They have once been the pillars for others
My hands may tremble with tremors
They have once taught others how to write
My mind may be duller
It has made other minds bright
My memory may be weak
I have given many, the moments to remember
I may not be able to think
I have given many, the thoughts to ponder
My teeth may be missing
I have given food to many to survive and thrive
I may not be able to walk steadily
I have helped others walk the walk of life
I may not be able to see
I have shown others the path
I may not be able to hear now
I have lent an ear when I had
I like being cared for
I don't like being bossed
I like being loved
I don't like being forced
I like having people willing to help,
But I don't like when they pity…
I like my independence
Though you may make a decision for me,
If you can understand
That I like empathy but not sympathy
I have lived a life
That in itself brings grace
That makes me deserving
Of respect to my space
I may have lost my sleep
I know it will return here
And when it returns,
It will embrace me forever
I am Geriatric today
You may be one tomorrow
It is another thing that I have,
And I will pass it on
Author: Jaya Sonkar M.D., M.P.H.
©All rights reserved. Jaya Sonkar 2019
