You think, “I can’t be a senior citizen! I’m in the prime of life!” Strong as ever . . . sexy as Angelina Jolie on my best days (or maybe in my best dreams) . . . competent and respected in the workplace and my community . . . experienced in many things . . . and finally approaching a level of self-actualization that allows me to feel somewhat comfortable in who I’ve become and where I’m headed on this earthly journey. Life is pretty good!
And then it happens . . . the reality check! That girl . . . that silly, smug little youngster behind the counter at the fast food joint rings up your morning coffee at 25 cents. And you (honest as the day is long) say, “I think you short-changed yourself. You only charged me 25 cents.”
Her answer . . . “ No, that’s right. We only charge 25 cents for coffee for senior citizens.”
(GASP!!!!) Not ONLY did she in essence just call you “OLD,” but, the grin on her face tells you that she’s proud of herself for not having to ask, and probably even expects you to thank her for noticing! Has the world gone completely mad?!
My husband was standing next to me when that unforgettable and painful moment hit me between the eyes. The look on my face must have registered pretty high on my internal Richter scale, but he was ultimately the one who erupted . . . into gales of laughter as he thanked the now somewhat confused little twit!
Reality check #2: My spouse finds it amusing that I’m horrified by someone recognizing that I was quite literally not born yesterday. So what does that mean? Et tu Brute'?
While hubby composes himself and realizes that it could be a very quiet drive home, I take deep breaths . . . in and out . . . trying to relax and go with the flow. Thinking positive thoughts. And then the calm after the storm comes in on a wave . . . Everything is going to be fine. Age is only a number, and the “Senior Citizens Discount” is just based on a number. It’s not personal. Besides, that’s quite a bargain on a cup of coffee; and what tastes better than a bargain?
“Excuse me, Sweetie . . . could I get an apple turnover to go with my coffee? And don’t forget to give me my Senior Citizens discount.”
Copyright 2009-2010 Carol Auclair Daly
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