THIS OLD HAT
This old hat has
been a friend to me
on three continents.
I bought it on
a whim
in a small
California town
whose name
I have forgotten.
Had to add a
chin strap
for the unpredictable
winds of Melbourne.
In the
summer sun
of South America
I wear it
(and only it)
in the pool.
Like me,
it is washable.
It protects my
balding head
from sun and rain.
It protects me
from looking
respectable.

(originally written in February 2015; revised May 30 2015)