This is a new PhotoArt composition for this poem
written many years ago. The framed photo is also one of mine—
A gift to Elaine and she framed it.

“The Final Tea “
by my 96 year old elder friend, Elaine.

Two little ladies met for tea. / Things were not as they used to be.
The hostess insisted for old time sake / They meet once more
for tea and cake.

Her hand shook slightly / as she reached for a cup. /
It shook even more as she filled it up.
Younger eyes might readily see / Chips in the China, / leaves in the tea.

A tear in her eye signaled distress / as she said to her friend, / I must confess, I still love you dearly
and I'm glad you came; / but do me a favor, / please tell me your name."

The other looked up; she too was in tears / to think this could happen
after so many years.
With a yellowed napkin, once white as snow, / she dabbed her eyes asking,
“How soon must you know?"

—Elaine Parker Akin

——
“Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained in the way of righteousness.” – Proverbs 16:31

“They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” – Psalms 92:14

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” – 2 Corinthians 4:16