Departure Lounge

It is quite the regal edifice
prominently placed, large and
spacious, well designed, furnished
and equipped with modern
technical marvels to service the
needs of the metropolis. It seems
like an exclusive establishment
but on closer scrutiny, a populist
one, and hugely popular judging
from the hordes of humanity
entering and exiting singly and
in pairs, assembling in groups
or in contemplative solitude
awaiting service. This place beckons
and attracts an infirm populace
suffering from the chronic ailment
of old age. They arrive in wheelchairs
or pushing walking aids, or leaning
upon one another; grey haired and
frail, elderly and uncertain, thin
and obese, searching the means
to extend their superannuated 
lives. They come to be healed, or
their aches and pains, their dire
conditions ameliorated however
temporarily. They are treated,
comforted, bedded and fed. They
cringe and they whinge and
ultimately join their predecessors.