Guardianship

They are ancient
this couple on the tram
His face the peaceful
of the truly old
Taking whatever comes
with grace, fingers flipping
The head of the cane
reminding him of life
Near blind, cheek bandaged
handsome even now
A face caught in repose
he approves himself

Facing seats, she watches him
eyes kind with love
Guarding each day left
with all that went before
Given years enough
all roles reverse like their's
Fathers now children
guardians the guarded
His once strong hands
remember their protection
She sees him through
and thinks of flowers