The Downside

I know I’m getting older;
The calendar can’t lie.
The years of staying out all night
Have simply passed me by.

My clothing still looks youthful.
My energy’s not low;
Yet I’m not fooling anyone
And this is how I know:

As soon as I step on the train,
I’m offered up a seat.
It’s chivalrous, polite and kind
But also bittersweet.

For even though I will accept,
(A subway seat’s like gold.)
That person’s really telling me,
“Hey lady – you look old!”

Though courtesy is wonderful,
Please don’t misunderstand -
I’d rather blend into the crowd,
Quite happy just to stand.