I just hung up my telecommunication provider assistance helpline.
The helpline operator sounded old, a retiree who chose to return to the workforce perhaps?
Very patient.
Or subdued to the inevitable in his work?
Why I say so?
Coz there's no joy in his voice, nor any hint of agitation.
Resigned to life?
Numb?

I'm not sure if his current state is 'matured' or 'blistered'.
Oddly, I sense something worthy of envy from it.