First Date

I was 'round fourteen when the charms of girls began to beckon, And was about fifteen when I had my first date, I'd reckon. Way back then there were certain rituals to be observed, Some of which left me quite bereft and somewhat unnerved! The evening must be perfect so I wore a suit and tie. Shoes were shined and greasy Vitalis I'd liberally apply. Peach fuzz was plucked and I fairly reeked of Old Spice. The car was washed and waxed to further her entice! This too was her first date and things must be just right. She'd had a snit with her Ma thinking her hair was a fright! But she looked lovely in her hat, gloves and flowered frock. Her Pa's parting shot, "You git her home by ten o'clock!" When I called for her I daren't sit and toot the horn. That would've heaped upon my brow her folks' eternal scorn! So I meekly sidled up and timidly tapped upon the door. Met by her scowling Pa who mused, "Who's this skinny boor?" My grandkids tell me there's no such formalities nowadays, And wearing jeans and mutilating body rings is all the craze! I'm told a great date is to join their friends at the local mall. I guess I was born too soon - I just don't understand that at all! Robert L. Hinshaw, CMSgt, USAF, Retired © All Rights Reserved