Old Women

You’re blind if you don’t see
the beauty of old, bent women:
those women who still see so much,
skin shriveled and sagging breasts.

Still the eyes overflow with understanding,
shine with love and courage
and a continued enjoyment of life;

despite the struggle, the losses,
the disappointments;
the times of grief survived
that left them empty.

They understand that words and hugs
offer understanding,
that confession of need for love
is a sign of trust;

that, above all, lust
for life is physical and hopeful,
and, thus, may wear,
so requires tenderness and care.