"Losing It"

 

I recently took a cognition test

To see if I was seriously demented.

This was never a problem in olden times

Before this test was invented.

 

People simply would whisper: “He’s losing it.”

Or: “He’s now completely flipped out.”

No lab tests required or EEG’s—

Just “Crazy Man approaching!” they’d shout.

 

Of course, voices in my head would have arguments:

“I’d bet money I’m as sharp as a tack.”

But I’d better remember why I entered this room,

Because there’s no way I’m again coming back.

 

More often, I forget other people’s names,

Or where I remember them from—

“How’s your wife?”

“Never married,” would come their reply,

Leaving me, standing there, feeling dumb.

 

So my habit developed, when someone I’d greet,

Calling them ‘Buddy’, ‘Sweetie’, ‘Dawg’ or ‘Dude!’

And not asking any serious questions—

Just nodding and smiling, letting them take the lead

And just trying not to sound rude.

 

So if it happens I’m demented in a technical sense,

If my test scores me in the top tier,

I’ll still walk around proudly, my head held up high,

Trying to remember the reason I’m here.

 

B. Kite -- 4/15/2024

 

Done