Maybe

I am embarrassed, and yes, more than a little bit ashamed of myself.

I am not certain what provoked my immediate response to the incident on the elevator yesterday, but when it was over, I was sad.

It was a trivial matter, yet, perhaps not.

I was the first occupant on the small and ever efficient elevator that descends to the dining area in the quite lovely residence where I currently spend my days and rest my weary bones.

I was en route to a luncheon engagement with two new friends, recent additions to this remarkable facility for “We of a certain age.”

When the elevator made it’s first stop, two other residents joined me also descending to the lowest level where the charming dining area is situated.

We exchanged smiles and a few “How are you today’s” before the elevator doors reopened once more and the final passenger entered.

As the door slowly closed, I heard:

“WHO is wearing that perfume?”

Since I was the only female occupant, I admitted:

“It is me.” Momentarily forgetting I should have said, “It is I.”

Then as the recent occupant loudly berated me,

I made my mistake by apologizing, and I was wrong.

The scent I wear is gentle.

Blue Grass was made memorable by the once renowned Elizabeth Arden. However, that is immaterial,

I apologized in response to someone’s rude behavior. Perhaps I was intimidated because I was the lone female or possibly when I realized the accusatory voice was far louder than mine.

However, despite my age I have now learned another lesson in life

I immediately realized my Mother, my Daughter, all my Granddaughters (and most likely my female cousins) would be rightfully embarrassed by my unnecessary apology.

Instantly, I knew that not only will I strive never to repeat that mistake but I will continue to enjoy Blue Grass even when I ride the elevator.

But maybe not quite as much.

Maybe, just maybe, because we were both wrong.