A New Week
What’s Your Number?
I must confess, I am in love with a group of women (and two men) who redefine age. They are living life on their terms, flourishing in a world that doesn’t necessarily regard people of a certain age.
There are no slackers here, but positive individuals with a can-do spirit, who continue to make a difference. They set the example of how to live, making the most of each day by keeping busy – volunteering, gardening, painting, writing, traveling, etc.
They are a life force, a thriving collective entity that shines brighter than any star, inspiring every ounce of my being. It tells me, I too can go the distance, but it requires a willingness to stimulate the mind, to plan, to reflect, but above all else to choose quality to quantity and to keep moving.
Like many, most are confronting disease (hypertension, diabetes, etc., and a few with cancer), but they don’t wallow in self-pity, but persevere, and see these challenges as a test to their resolve.
At times I want to embrace sadness because I know of the demise of a dear few, but not the time and place. Often they share their stories with me, and sadness is never part of the conversation – ever (and no, they are not hiding their feelings and fears). I have drifted away from such misgivings, staying true to the message at hand, which is of hope, inspiration and to always live life to the fullest – every second of every minute, every hour of every day.
It’s clear to me, and to you, dear reader, we must cherish and build upon our memories and make the most of our time in the here and now, learning from those who walk before us. They have stories to tell and messages to share, and we must take heed in order to live our own best life. The goal must be to improve upon the previous generation and to always share the precious gift of knowledge. There is no way to accomplish the latter if you present with a know-it-all attitude and are not willing to listen.
People of a certain age – we banish and we are often inclined to think and occasionally say, "Your time is up." We become impatient and too often dismiss their intelligence, believing a new way is better than an old one (not necessarily true as current events prove).
People of a certain age are powerful, and are never to be underestimated, especially my group of friends. There are days when I wish I had their tenacity, energy and minds – they are like sponges. I love when they teach me, but more so when we teach each other. It’s always a two-way street, unless one gets cranky, then look out!
It’s true when they say, "Youth is wasted on the young."
People are not to be forgotten. We must champion the cause of those who are gravely ill, that lack the zest for life and who have embraced old age because they didn’t feel they had a choice. We must not forget those who’ve been warehoused in a nursing home or lie dying in a hospice. There are many ways to look at this, but I don’t think everyone gets a choice, especially if you are in poor health, poor financially or a minority.
It’s up to each of us to reach out to those who are overwhelmed by their years, and the best way to do this is by listening, caring, smiling and hugging. It’s just about being there, to offer support, comfort and confidence.
We can’t save everyone in the world, but we can love everyone in it, honoring to do our very best (within reason) to improve the odds. We are failing miserably, and the extremes confirm this all too often.
It’s time we stop worshiping being young. Absolutely have fun, because I sure did, but not to the point of becoming a narcissist, feeding into an identity crisis to last a lifetime (check out Hollywood for examples of this level of doom and gloom).
I once feared age, but not anymore, because of some special friends who’ve helped me see that age is just a number. What’s your number? – paerki
A New Week
Cold weather?! Bring it on! I am thrilled to be bundled in all things wool. I am having a lazy weekend, which is rare for me, but I think (no, I know) my body was telling me to take a breather and relax, and when it talks – I listen!
A new week begins. I encourage everyone to power down his/her electronics (if/when possible), leave the car at home and go for a simple uncomplicated walk – alone! Connect with the colors of a season and the sounds of nature, and you’ll find answers to life’s questions, and much inspiration (this I can assure you if you devote yourself to the process).
Living in the extremes is a recipe for disaster. I’ve been at both ends of the spectrum at different points in my life. Maturity and a whole lot of personal experience has taught me that moderation is key and leads to a fuller life. Find everyday balance, incorporating small measures to improve your overall health and you will find the real you, hopefully drama-free.
Make the most of Sunday, because Monday will be here before you know it. Thrive! – paerki
("Do you want to know who you are? Don't ask. Act! Action will delineate and define you." – Thomas Jefferson)
