On the Board Walk

Today I saw a lovely young woman in a flowing yellow sundress, hand in hand with a man, walking down the harbor walk. It was a sight that seemed to typify summer in New England. As I got nearer I noticed the man moved unsteadily. Closer observation showed that he was much older, probably her father, and that he had some form of age-related dementia. A short distance away walked someone who looked like the mother.

The young woman looked unflustered, holding her father’s hand. Without her steadying light touch perhaps he’d have found it impossible to walk anywhere.

When I’m old and doddery, and have lost most of my marbles, I’d like to have a young relative who can accompany me along the board walk and hold my hand, unembarrassed.

May we all be so fortunate.