The Hat Was Retired - A Poem of Worry and Thanks

Retired.
The best way
to describe what happened recently
to my hat.
Retired.

Unceremoniously.
Tossed aside casually
by my friends who cared
just about looks.
Regretfully.

Gone.
No case awaits,
despite my plans to contrary
for it's residency
within.

See,
I wanted her
to stay around to remind
this boy of
travails.

But
others had plans
that leave me pondering deeply
if she got
Respect.

So
I sit writing
under the new hat slowly
praying others recognize
me.

For
my Identity Card
she was for these years
as I wandered
streets.

Yet
A new hat
leads me to hope fervently
that better days
await.

Still,
I miss it.
She had character and memories,
despite worn brim,
cherished.

Hope.
That remains now,
for me to grasp firmly
as I tip
replacement.

Rest in Peace, old oilskin,
and may your successor
last as long.
Farewell.
30December2013 - Dyfedd Rex, with thanks and misgivings both.