Overheard In A Bank Line

         I watched the client step up to the bank teller's window clutching a wad of cash, a passbook and a utility bill to her chest. Mutely she proffered those items.

          "Ma'am, I need to see your debit/bank card, please."

         The customer frowned and replied, "I never have to show my card."

         At the teller's firm insistence, the older woman pulled the requested piece of plastic from her pocket and proffered it.

         From my place in the line I saw the employee swipe the card and announce," It's not working. Did you punch in your pass code?"

          With a shake of her grey head and a shrug the woman stated, "I never have to do that. I cannot remember it. Just go ahead without it."

         "Ma'am, I cannot do that. Could you try what you think it might be?"

         Grumbling and complaining the wannabe customer repeats, "I never."

         I couldn't help but notice that the teller spoke slowly and clearly without once raising her voice.

         "I'd like to fix this and issue you a new card. Do you have any i.d.?"

         Waving her arms and reaching for her cane, the annoyed woman answered, "No. Why?"

         "I need to know who you are long after you're gone."

         My impromptu snicker startled people behind me in that stalled line. The customer was clearly a senior citizen. All things being equal and hopefully logical, it would make sense to believe she would die before the teller or myself. Does that phrase not hint at mortality? That is something I expect to see as an epitaph carved upon a grave stone. Long after you're gone.

         I am not sure how I feel about my bank remembering me after my demise. Will they be sure to leave a commemoration of sorts upon my grave marker?

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