Saturday, January 06, 2007

Entry #15

The Centenarian
By Joni Haws


I wouldn’t mind me some new shoes. George used to find me the most gorgeous shoes. Amy says I don’t need them, and she’s right, of course. But I love new shoes.

She’s a sweet little thing, that Amy, bouncing in and out of here, but she needs to get that hair out of her eyes. I don’t fret when she gets a bit patronizing. She can’t see beneath the wrinkles and stooped shoulders to find the dancer, the lover, or the woman who buried three of her six children while their daddy was fighting the war.

There was a party for me in the rec. room, with silly streamers and cake I couldn’t eat. I loved seeing my boys, but they never seem to be able to stay long. I let them squeeze my hands and I told them I was tired. I was too. I’m plum worn out.

I’m no fool. I know this is just a prison with a pretty name. Once the hearing goes and your hips become a threat they tuck you into a quiet little cell with floral wallpaper. I’m not angry at them though.

George and I promised each other that the first one to go was to come right back for the other. Twenty-six years later, it’s the first time I’ve been stood up. You can bet he’ll get an earful next time I see him, and he better get me a damn fine pair of shoes.

13 comments:

Bernita said...

GOOD!

Jaye Wells said...

Your voice is so distinctive, Joni. I always look forward to your entries.

Anonymous said...

I hope they're a fine pair of dancing shoes.

Anonymous said...

Very exciting! So much talent here.

Fran Piper said...

Excellent work. A great character with a great voice.

Jeff said...

I like your voice. Great job!

s.w. vaughn said...

This reminds me of a song... "If You Get There Before I Do" by Colin Raye. That song makes me cry. This piece made me tear up! :-)

Anonymous said...

Beautiful story, with a strong voice - really well done.
Atyllah

Anonymous said...

This is really nicely done. I love that last line!

Anonymous said...

brilliant! masterful!

Anonymous said...

You created a character the reader would instantly connect to. Beautiful writing. :)

Anonymous said...

Awwww! Don't you just want to go visit and hold her hand?

Very nice :)

Anonymous said...

Loved the very real attitude shining through at the end. Also, I appreciated the tension between her internal and external personae. Very poignant.

Very high marks overall!