DON'T LOOK NOW

On the bus back from an appointment I became cognizant of the fact that I have become a dirty old man, albeit a rather innocent one. A young lady standing next to where I was seated had a lovely face. So fresh, so clean, so girlish. Her mien showed evidence of remarkable personality and intelligence. I looked as little as possible, because at my age that doesn't come across as in anyway good, but rather like a skeevy old pervert.

Naturally one would not wish to make that impression.
At any age. But certainly not on the bus.
Too many there already.

Personally, I find the company and attention of most older folks irritating, even if they're my age. "I'm old, I need special treatment, serve me before all of these young people!" Um, one is more likely to be satisfied with a little patience, so go ahead you old fossil, I'll just calmly wait in line with all of these vibrant chirpy things. They're more likely to make me feel alive, and the view is better.

Which reminds me of a restaurant to which I haven't been in three years, where a crusty old fart who came in after me was served first, and he had happily finished his meal before I had even gotten my drink. He wasn't the only example of very much quicker attention, but he and his grumpy wife were at the next table over, so it was right in my face. Obvious and blatant. Which I took as a message that I don't count, I should henceforth take my business elsewhere, and a pox on all of them.

Please especially note that I tip better than those two people.
Habitually. Because I've worked in restaurants.
I am not a cheap hinterland villager.

Being gracious and polite is no extraordinary effort and should come naturally. In any case one should always make an attempt to make a favourable impression. Whether any other people appreciate that is rather immaterial. One does it for one's own sense of self worth. The idea that one is a decent person and has not failed to reach personal standards.
And yes, it does make life nicer.

Besides, I'll undoubtedly be found wanting in other ways, so I might as well have a credit balance to counter that.


Not acting like a dirty old man kind of falls into that category.


Oh, and did I mention the view?



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