This Aging Man

Today I didn't turn away, From this aging man staring. Staring back at me, With an expression of gratitude. Today I stopped to say 'Thank you'. 'Thank you', is what I said today. 'Thank you', for being there, To tolerate experiences I now appreciate. There had been days, When I would only glance... To quickly examine the gray. And the lines on my face, That began to trace... An aging that my felt kept youth, Could no longer fake a truth. Each phase of life one is blessed to live, Welcomes yet another stage of it that fades. Today... I didn't turn away, From this aging man staring! I stayed and examined a reflection of me. A reflection I suddenly began to feel proud to see. And congratulated, I did, this aging man. With a comprehending to understand... No other way I would rather be.