“When I’m on Autopilot”

by Moreah Vestan

I’m never sure that I’m totally me.

Yes, I am when I read a book and have tea.

Yet, when I make up my mind to FINISH a book,

I don’t hesitate to go instead and cook.

I know I’ll never read all that’s on my shelf—

I change my mind and choose to please myself.

That NOVA show I travel with on TV

overrides the messy sink and cluttered desk I see.

I check in with intuition to make sure

there’s nothing amiss that needs a cure.

Though my gut leads to pleasure I enjoy

my mind brings up “should” that annoy.

I remind myself that unsorted boxes are no big deal.

For, after all, is there something I MUST heal?

I’ve no one else I must answer to,

and my choices are for ME, not you!

My age absolves me of things I HAVE to do!

So, sit back, Moreah, and do what pleases YOU!

Moreah Vestan is an 80-year-old Washingtonian and author of a book of essays and a book of poetry and vignettes. See https://www.yourtango.com/experts/pleasuresandponderings.

SHARING STORIES is a weekly column for and about the 50 plus crowd living in the Puget Sound region. Send your stories and photos to ariele@comcast.net. Tell local or personal stories; discuss concerns around aging and other issues; share solutions, good luck, and reasons to celebrate; poems are fine too. Pieces may be edited or excerpted. We reserve the right to select among pieces. Photos are always a plus and a one-sentence bio is requested (where you live, maybe age or career, retired status, etc.).

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