THE “CLASS” of ’63

Guards are dropped
respect is gained
for those
we barely noticed.
Hearing tales
of human lives
that are not
candy-coated.

Dressing up
from the inside out.
Not needing to impress.
Admitting flaws
of younger years.
Desiring to confess.

Embracing time
that one short night.
Holding then and now.
Observing friends
with new regard
that truth
and age allow.

Janet Brice Parker