I am 80. I know what it feels like to be 80. I am not the man I used to be.

I am clumsy. I am careless. I drop things. I misplace my glasses, my keys, my remote control and I forget what else.

I walk slowly and carefully so as not to fall. This is normal, I tell myself. It is called aging.

Miss Mattie, Miss Anna Marie, Miss Priscilla, you know I love you. And I know you love me. So when you see me eating at Western Sizzlin’ every Tuesday and Thursday night, please don’t hug me. Let’s just wave, smile and say hello at a distance.

I know you graduated from the U.S. Concealed Carry Association class as top gun, but I still don’t want to risk a malfunction.

My goal is to get a whole lot older. Please be careful. Thank you. Much love.

Jay R. Sara

Wilson