GRATEFUL ANYWAY
by Sherry S.

"No, I wouldn't try the biologics. Besides,
you seem at peace with your psoriasis,"
said my dermatologist, looking up at me
the way one in authority sometimes does
to make things more equal, as I had with my kids.

"Not at peace," I replied, "but reconciled."
"Next time I'm coming back in a better body,"
I joked, not continuing with my thoughts
about how lucky she looked in hers, perfect
skin wrapped around youth and intelligence,

like a bar of smooth chocolate vs. my broken
piece with its bug parts and cheap wrap. Today
I was in that grateful state age can bring when
one has walked an hour through nature, downed
good coffee, and chatted and laughed with friends.