I know it's a cliche', but really, who IS that person looking back from the mirror at me? Who ARE those people in my high school class reunion photo? I can't be pushing 70! I simply can't. I don't feel that old. Inside I'm about 40. Well, maybe 50, but 70? No way!
I wish people would stop trying to convince me I'm old. Oh, they don't argue with me. No, it's much more subtle than that. It's things like moaning when getting up after sitting too long, and lamenting about being old. OK, so I moan a little too, but it's not because I'm old. It's simply because I get a little stiff if I sit too long.
Then there are the comments about doing things to keep your mind active. As if your mind runs down like a clock with a weak battery. If you can speak, your mind must be working. And if it's working, it's active.
Or saying they like to be around children because they keep you young. Personally I like to be around children just because they are such a delight to watch.
Or making comments about how things aren't the way they used to be. Can you name even one thing that always stays the same? Why would you want it to? That would just be boring.
Or talking about having a 'senior moment.' If periodically forgetting something qualifies as a senior moment, then my senior moments began in my twenties. I prefer the term 'brain cramp' to describe those moments.
In our 30's we say we wish things could slow down just a little. Then, when they do, we complain that it takes too long to accomplish any given task. What happend to wanting to slow down?
I think maybe the problem is with our focus on what numbers mean. When I was 50 my son asked me how old I was. When I told him, he replied,
"Really! I didn't know you wer that old."
I informed him I was NOT old. He recovered quickly by saying,
"I know you're not. I just didn't know the number was that high."
So, how about we stop attaching a meaning to our birthday number? How about celebrating every time the number gets bigger?
Meanwhile, I think I'll stop looking in the mirror.
Joyce has been writing for her own enjoyment for many years, and only in the past few years has gained the courage to "go public" with her writing. She has had two books published, and is involved with the Fine Lines magazine as a special editor. Her writing primarily reflects her own experiences, or the life experiences she has observed in others. She has her own blog, Joyce's Ramblings at http//joyce-wwwnewbyblogger.com.blogspot.com Joyce would like to add that she always welcomes constructive criticism comments.
Great article, well-written. Last year I joined a 55+ club because they have so many activities such as yoga, exercises (stretching while sitting down) movie discussions, learning a new language, listening to poetry and etc. but the best part for me was, I was the youngest. LOL. Thanks again for sharing. ~Nenita~
Fun article, Joyce. I enjoyed it thoroughly! Getting into those higher numbers really isn't for sissies, is it? I'm with you on doing my best not to look in the mirror too much...I have to check every once in awhile, though, to make sure my hair isn't too scary and my lipstick isn't on my teeth.
Nice job, getting down to the meaning of old, Joyce. Great use of humor and candor. I enjoyed the dialogue between you and your son, too. It made your story even more real.
» left by Brianna Popsickle (12 days 11 hours ago.)
Like my husband says about old age, "We've all got it coming." You're as old as you feel. You can choose to think young but your body may just have a little trouble keeping up. :) Don't fret too much about getting older Jean, what's the alternative?
I turned 31 yesterday and although the number isn't that high yet I feel it is impossible to be where I am in life. I really feel as if I'm at that stage of tring to slow things down. My girls are growing so fast that I am left spinning. thanks for putting it in perspective for me
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