Draining the Reserves

I used to be much nicer.
I once was really sweet.
I’d smile at every stranger
I’d cross paths with on the street.

But as I’ve aged, I’ve noticed
All that charm in my reserves
Has evaporated, since so many
Folks get on my nerves.

Like the pushy, the obnoxious,
Those too loud or dense or rude –
They’ve demolished my demeanor
And displaced my attitude.

There’s a reason older people
Turn cantankerous and cross
For experience drains patience,
Which is everybody’s loss.