[Acrylic-bob]

Like others I was always brought up to believe that I should treat my elders with respect, but it does become very difficult when respect is regarded as a one-way street. It is true to say that for some people (note I say some, not all,) the acquisition of a pension book is seen as a licence to be as rude and obnoxious as possible.

I don't think that aches and pains are really the cause of most it though. I have noticed that as they get older people tend to become less like adults and more like wilful children, with some of the more unpleasant traits often coming to the fore; self-pity, aggression, impatience etc.

Speaking for myself, I have only fifteen years to go before I am handed my licence to gratuitously offend - I can hardly wait! It will be my reward for having behaved myself for fifty years.