Shocking the neighbour

I had ventured outside, feeling the sun on my face and warming my aching bones; I decided to sit on a bench, just meters from our front door. A neighbour I have not seen for some time happened to be walking towards me; staring at me with a quizzical look on her face, and without thinking raised her hand to cover her gaping mouth as her eyes opened wide suddenly realising it was me. Have I changed that much in the last few months? I thought not, but seeing her shocked expression, gave me the distinct feeling that I do look different. We all age, none of us can stop the passing of time, and I believe the fountain of youth has yet to be discovered. As for all those anti-wrinkle creams – well Mother Nature must be having a good laugh at us ladies who purchase these products with the belief that they’ll actually work. But let’s be honest, chronic disease does take its toll, and needless to say those who don’t see me on a regular basis are bound to notice changes. To cover her uncomfortable slip-up, I quickly said “hello” and asked how she and her family was. Before she answered me, she leant forward and touched the sleeve of my T-shirt, pointing out that I was wearing it inside out! So now I am left wondering, was she shocked at how I look, or at the fact I had my top on inside out. Maybe it was both; I guess I’ll never know. The moral to this story, is to have a mirror on the wall by the front door, so that you can take a quick look just before you step outside!