". . .when we realize that aging is real. . ." Excerpt From A Firing Offense George Pelecanos

[George McGovern]

“Somewhere along the line I became a salesman, worked on commission as I put myself through college, cut my hair, was promoted into management, got married and divorced, and generally lost the notion that life was a series of adventures and opportunities waiting to happen. One day a stockboy in one of the stores called me “sir,” and I was alarmed by that panicky, universal moment when we realize that aging is real and for all of us, not just for watery-eyed relatives and quiet old men on the bus.”

[Skittles]

1. I was called MA'AM when I was 21 and a sergeant in the Air Force, by new airmen

it always startled me

[George McGovern]

3. My wife's 73. She still doesn't like to be called MA'AM. Don't people realize how they can affect our senses of being?

Thanks Skittles

[LoisB]

5. When one goes from being called "Miss" to being called "Ma'am", we women check our

gray hair and wrinkles.

[George McGovern]

6. At first reading of your reply Lois I thought you meant "we women check out" of the scene and walk away. I was wrong.

[LoisB]

16. We do that too.

[Skittles]

8. I haven't been called that lately as a geezer

I wouldn't care for it but I wouldn't bite their head off

[George McGovern]

18. Another context for geezer: "An elderly person, especially one with a long-standing presence or experience."

Thank You Skittles!

[Skittles]

19. I do find my concept as ELDERLY has very much changed

I know it is a cliche but it really isn't about the number, and more about the health and welfare of a person.....I still swim across lakes for fun; I embrace my geezer status!

[Demobrat]

4. I once told my favorite barista, who is Latino,

not to call me, or any female customer, ma’am, because it makes us feel old. I told him to say miss instead. He later told me his tips went up.

[George McGovern]

7. Of course his tips went up, silly boy. Good you set him right! Thanks Demobrat (love your user name)! -- Allan

[BurnDoubt]

9. Yep.

From runnin' with the big dogs to watchin' 'em from the porch.
Enjoy your body while it still works.
No Shit!

[George McGovern]

12. No Shit Indeed BurnDoubt! Thanks!

[Figarosmom]

10. Yeah

[George McGovern]

13. Agreed Figarosmom! Thanks! -- Allan

[multigraincracker]

11. Without old people there wold be no young people.

[George McGovern]

14. Profound statement multigraincracker. Thank You! -- Allan

[multigraincracker]

15. Boomer Proud, and I got to see all of great bands live.

[George McGovern]

17. That's a great motto "Boomer Proud"! There were lotsa great bands for sure! Thanks multigraincracker!