Who Is That Man In the Mirror

Who is that man staring back at me in the mirror? I keep looking and searching, analyzing that mans reflection, and he keeps doing the same thing. Who he is is a mystery to me, it's a little unsettling he looks familiar to me, kind of like, me but older... Could it really be me? I see traces of my youthful self, and the man I used to be hints of hidden blonde hair among the gray and white strands dark spots and wrinkles on my weak arthritic hands. Each grey hair is like a mileage marker on the highway of my life this body is certainly well traveled, the miles have passed quickly, faster than I anticipated, the end of the road appears on the horizon and the pace quickens. Each wrinkle and line around my eyes and mouth are reminders, grave reminders, reminding me that the grave is only a missed breath away. Thankfully I see the scar on my chest, which also reminds me that at least my heart will keep beating by force of electrical impulse if not by nature. I can't say that this impression of me is new and improved more like used and abused, but definitely renewed in the spirit, the man I am within, is who I really am, not this worn out replica I see looking back at me. I see traces of the man I used to be, traces of strength and vitality. Although my strength has escaped me, and left me here trapped in this fleshly prison of a body, my mind and heart rejoice in anticipation of all that I'm going to do. Sadly, this man in the mirror reminds me that it's simply not true! At least the youthful face that once was filled with anguish and despair has been replaced by a wiser face, one that understands why people can be sometimes so cruel, and why life is sometimes challenging and disappointing. As I stare at the man who stares back at me, I can see in his eyes a genuineness, a sincerity, an honesty, and a tranquil peace despite the pain. I smile an accepting smile, and he smiles back at me, as if to say I like you and how you've turned out, and I say to myself, me too. John Derek Hamilton May 06, 2016