Elderly Women

I see them early mornings
with little dogs
they speak to as to little children.

Freed up from habitual chores,
they miss the rhythm
and the need
by families to be needed.

Glad to talk,
they share their aches and pains,
the local gossip,
how a daughter, newly married,
is doing.

They have such beautiful faces,
such patient smiles
above large sagging bosoms.

They are too wise
to be chivvied by dogs into hurry,
but soon decide
they have talked long enough:
it is time.

I love these beautiful women
for their gentle eyes.