Author Information
A MEMORY
Today I was driving home from work and in front of me an older man was driving slow
I was immediately transported back to when Bryan got his license, so many years ago.
I accompanied him to the bureau of motor vehicles and there we stood abreast
As Bryan was next in line to complete his vision test.
Before us stood an old man filled with confidence and pride
As his vision was being tested a younger man stood by his side.
The old man put his head into the machine to test his eyes
When asked to read the top line, “I can’t!” came his reply.
“Let me try again,” he said, “now which line did you say?”
The screener said, “The top line.” Then the old man stepped away.
He looked at the young man next to him, then looked back at the screen
“I’m not sure,” he said, “but I think there’s something wrong with this machine.
“Miss,” he asked the lady, “ who had just let out a yawn
This machine you’re using for the test, are you sure the damn thing’s on?
“I’m sure.” Came out her curt reply, “There will be no debating.
Please read the top line to me...there are many people waiting.”
The old man pushed his head into the machine until it shook momentarily
Trying harder to read the top line that he obviously couldn’t see.
“Are you sure this thing is working?” the old man asked once more
“Yes!” the screener said rolling her eyes as if she’d heard this all before.
She responded in an unkind tone, as if she’d been provoked
“If you cannot read the top line, sir, your license will be revoked.
The old man took a step back he had no more reply
He stood up tall and straightened his clothes as a tear fell from his eye.
“Don’t worry Pop,” the young man said this is a misfortune we will survive
After all the years you drove me around it’s now my turn to drive.
Come on I’ll drive you home,” he said, “as you drove me before
He put his arm around his dad then they walked slowly out the door
That day has always been special not because Bryan passed his test
But because we saw before us a father truly blessed.
