I am neither clever, nor sophisticated.

Some might argue that my views are antiquated.

Still, the older I grow, the more I am aware

of the harsh reality that life isn’t fair.

One can whine about it, or kick, scream and cry.

Me? I saw that all I had to do was just try.

I could read every self-help book on the shelf,

but no superhero would save me from myself.

While Fate composed my chapters mysteriously,

I resolved not to take life so seriously.

I have learned to surrender to the pain of truth,

and shun the humorless attitude of my youth.

In my thoughts and words, I find that I’m transcending

the tawdry cruelness of being condescending.

Because, my pal, I’ve seen how the past works out fine.

It’s there that I’ve found evidence of the divine.

Lauretta E. Hertel is a born-and-raised Washingtonian who has enjoyed many years of being a nanny and is looking forward to dedicating more time to writing and photography in her retirement.

HARING 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.).

SHARING STORIES is featured on http://www.northwestprimetime.com, the website for Northwest Prime Time, a monthly publication for baby boomers, seniors, retirees, and those contemplating retirement. The newspaper can be found in the greater Seattle area and other Puget Sound locations. For more information, call 206-824-8600 or visit http://www.northwestprimetime.com. To find other SHARING STORIES articles on this website type “sharing stories” in the search function above.