Who's business is it anyway, if I choose to work on the computer until 4:00 a.m., or sleep until noon? Without apology, I will day dream, sitting idly by myself on my front porch or in a quiet setting on the Lake Huron shoreline. I will marvel at God's handiwork in the nature surrounding me. Who's to care if I take the better part of an hour to get dressed in the morning...I don't have deadlines to meet any more. What's the difference if I don't get my hair cut and grow a beard...At my age I don't have to impress anyone. And I'll have a cup of coffee (and people-watch) at Tim Hortons any time I damn well please. So how do you like them apples?
I fully subscribe to the following anonymous words.
"I will listen to the wonderful music of the 1940s, 50s and 60s. And if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love or a sentimental moment, I will.
"I will walk the beach, in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves, with abandon, if I choose to. Despite the pitying glances from the jet set. They, too, will get old.
"I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And, eventually, I remember the important things.
"Sure, over the years, my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength, and understanding, and compassion. A heart never broken, is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.
"I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face. So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.
"As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think. I don't question myself anymore. I've even earned the right to be wrong.
"So, to answer your question, I like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become. I am not going to live forever. But while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be.
"And I shall eat dessert every single day (if I feel like it)."
I'm with you all the way, my "senior" friend...And I'll gladly accept a senior citizen's discount any time it is offered.
