The problem with talking

The problem with talking is

that my words bleed all over my ego

and make me cringe.

The advantage of aging is

that cringing is not enough

to make me stop talking.

Speaking the truth as I see it

means that I often speak alone

and speak without being heard.

Not being heard doesn’t make

what I have to say

any less valid.

Not being heard doesn’t make

me hesitate to speak again

the next time and the next time after that.

I love the courage that aging brings.

It heats up my veins

and gives me power surges.

I may not be quick and agile

but I am firm and persistent

and my eyes are wide open.

I am awake.

I am a participant.

I am present here and now.