Small Things

 

In my old age and restricted condition,

I look forward to the small things like

a good casserole for dinner or chocolate

cake for dessert.

I look forward to receiving a book of

poetry I ordered from Amazon, or

discovering a photograph I had taken

years ago and had long since forgotten.

It’s the little things, you know.

Now that I’m old, I no longer have the

stamina or energy for big events and

activities like dating or concerts, grand

openings, art shows or trips to charming

far away places.

Years ago. back when I was in my mid

thirties I was to be one of the honorees

awarded a certificate for volunteer work

I had done at a home for abused children.

I worked with the kids weekly helping

them paint colorful murals on the drab

cinder block walls of their living quarters.

I got a lot of personal satisfaction from that.

I was seated in the auditorium with

other guests enjoying the program as

I waited about half-an-hour through

customary speeches from the director

and staff until my name was called.

I rose humbly in turn, and walked up

to the podium to receive my award. I

said a few words praising the talents

of the kids, and thanked the staff for

the honor they had bestowed upon me.

I stood there bashfully as the audience

applauded, and then went unceremoni-

ously back to my seat. That was that,

a moment in the limelight and my fif-

teen minutes of fame was done.

Since getting older and less able to

participate in the more ostentatious

activities, I have come to appreciate

a more laid back and austere life style.

Even though admittedly I sometimes

miss the accolades and applause, I can

still make a wicked Italian Chicken

Alfredo Casserole if I do say so myself.

And a good poem early in the

morning helps.

              -30-

Chris Hanch 1-18-2021