THEM

by Elaine P. Morgan, Warrenton, VA

I watched them again today.

Familiar strangers

shuffling along together

down sidewalks, streets,

past storefronts, restaurants.

Both of then have snow white hair now

but not one strand reveals the secret

of their faded hues from yesterday.

He leans over a grocery cart

resting his weary spine.

She clutches his left arm

with a right hand to steady her gait.

Both of then hobble to their car

in silence, sharing presence gratefully 

after years of like intention to so many

common destinations.

I always told you we would be them,

we would be them one day.

We believed it you and me,

nostalgic fantasy.