Senior Discounted

by G. Jack Urso 

 

she was my first

i expected to pay more

no sir, she says, pointing at the sign

by the cash register

“10% Senior Discount”

 

i get the lower rate

the change rattles around my empty pocket

i would have protested

but a buck is a buck

the cats have to eat

i have to eat

 

i pass by rows of halloween candy and costumes

diapers 

toys

school supplies

acne medicine

shaving products

beer

condoms

pain medicine

medical appliances

birthday cards

graduation cards

anniversary cards

condolences

the full arc of life

 

i exit the store

the crisp air hits me

it’s autumn 

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