This Aging Man Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

Today I didn't turn away,
From this aging man staring.
Staring back at me,
With an expression of gratitude.

Today I stopped to say 'Thank you'.
'Thank you', is what I said today.
'Thank you', for being there,
To tolerate experiences I now appreciate.

There had been days,
When I would only glance...
To quickly examine the gray.
And the lines on my face,
That began to trace...
An aging that my felt kept youth,
Could no longer fake a truth.
Each phase of life one is blessed to live,
Welcomes yet another stage of it that fades.

Today...
I didn't turn away,
From this aging man staring!
I stayed and examined a reflection of me.
A reflection I suddenly began to feel proud to see.
And congratulated, I did, this aging man.
With a comprehending to understand...
No other way I would rather be.