I Am Old

The first e-mail that I opened this morning was from Rachel McAlpine. Rachel, like me, is old and celebrates it.

We are both in our 80s and live in the same city but have never met. Rachel is a poet, author, and artist. Visit her and see how she celebrates her age.

I tell most younger people who comment on my age that if they are lucky, they’ll get to be my age one day. As we know, so many people don’t reach my vast age. My response is usually met with looks of amazement as they often then go on to ask whether I still drive.

I tell most younger people who comment on my age that if they are lucky, they’ll get to be my age one day. As we know, so many people don’t reach my vast age. My response is usually met with looks of amazement and they often then go on to ask whether I still drive.

I have enjoyed each of the phases of my life, some, of course, more than others. But now I can say I honestly enjoy this phase. Oh, there are some obstacles when we’re old. I can no longer walk the long distances I used to, but I can still walk, albeit with the aid of a stick. The alternative to a stick is not to walk, which would be totally unacceptable.

I can still drive to my favourite beach and while I no longer walk along the sand I can walk along the esplanade and enjoy the sights and sounds of people on the beach. Incidentally, I am a Pisces, so water is very important to me, and I am happiest close to it.

There are those occasional and mostly strange, twitches and aches and pains. Our bones are more fragile but with extra care, we can make sure (as much as we can) that they don’t break.

I know that I am one of the lucky ones. My health is good for which I am truly thankful. I can get out and about and do those things that interest me.

I do have several younger friends but of course, most of my friends are now my age, so we do things at a slower pace – but still do things.

So how are you enjoying your age? Each day passes so quickly and can never be replayed. Enjoy each day as best you can, and be thankful for it.

And – If you get the choice to sit it out or dance, I hope you dance.