Gratis

I ordered a coffee,
My cash in my hand.
The clerk waved it off;
I did not understand.

“Just have a nice Wednesday;
The coffee’s on me,”
He said as I realized
My coffee was free.

I don’t look decrepit
Or homeless or poor,
But much like the others 
In line at the store.

Except for one thing – 
I don’t need to be told
That compared to his customers,
Yes, I am OLD!

You’d think I’d be happy
But all I can say
Is, although I’m a senior,
I’d just as soon pay!

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Pat Adams

Date: 11/16/2018 4:03:00 PM

I can relate. Some people don't think about if the shoe was on the other foot. I've been called "Young Man" and offered 50 cents off of a buffet for being old! I guess it's how you take it, but it seems like they are rubbing it in!......Another great write by the way!......80).....pat

Connie Marcum Wong

Date: 11/15/2018 12:57:00 PM

I know exactly what you mean Ilene. I was in Safeway buying a few cans of food when two people grabed my hand-held basket out of my hands to help me put the cans on the conveyer belt. One lady looked older than me the other stranger was also female. When I got to my car I and looked in my visor mirror I saw my face was bright pink. It was 90 percent humidity that day and they must have thought I was about to have a stroke. Lol It sure made me feel old. Loved your poem! : )

Rico Leffanta

Date: 11/15/2018 12:16:00 PM

Years ago, I noticed that young sales clerks have absolutely no idea what a "senior" looks like, offering senior discounts to people in their 40's and 50's, so accept the coffee and discounts knowing children learn best by experience! Aloha! Rico