When I was younger, the idea of getting older seemed daunting. In my teenage years, anyone over 40 felt ancient! They had peculiar smells, strange ways of speaking, and quirks that baffled me. However, as I’ve aged, my perception of “old” has shifted, and I’m grateful for it.
In my 20s, someone at 60 seemed ancient. Then I reached my 30s, and I thought 65 was the mark of old age—until my mother celebrated her 60th birthday, and that number suddenly felt much more approachable. Approaching 40, I considered anyone over 70 as old, but then I met a vibrant 75-year-old tennis player who could serve like a pro. Just a few years ago, I thought 80 was the cutoff, until I started teaching computer classes to seniors at a community college. One of my most inspiring students was 89 and eager to learn new things!
The more time I spend with individuals who embody a vibrant older age, the more I realize how much getting older can enrich our lives. Here’s what I’ve learned:
- The Learning Never Stops. Curiosity remains alive through the years. One gentleman, a WWII veteran, expressed a desire to learn tweeting and asked for help with hashtags. An 80-something woman shared her fascination with ancient Troy. It’s clear that the urge to learn is a lifelong journey. Thank goodness for that!
- Good Memories Outshine the Bad. The stories they tell are incredible. From attending a Paul McCartney concert in 1974 to reminiscing about their high school prom in 1954, their memories are filled with joy. They have seen births, graduations, and milestones that bring smiles to their faces. Even during tough times, the good memories shine through.
- No More Filters. As we age, we care less about what others think. Those unspoken opinions and thoughts bubble to the surface. The older generation speaks their minds freely, and I can’t wait for that liberating feeling. Imagine expressing yourself without hesitation!
- Resilience is Key. They’ve faced life’s challenges for decades and continue to rise each morning. While some days I worry about the future, they’ve navigated through parenting, loss, and career changes with grace. Their ability to endure is truly inspiring, proving that life is indeed manageable.
- Love Thrives. Many couples who have been married for decades still display affection, laughing and holding hands. Their love stories are a testament to endurance, and the joy they find in each other is infectious. I’m excited to embrace love in its many forms, no matter how many years pass.
Society often emphasizes fear of aging, urging us to fight it or feel ashamed about it. Instead, I wish to celebrate the wisdom and value that comes with age. I hope to champion the worth of older generations, believing that we should embrace our voices as we grow older. My filter seems to be thinning with each passing year, and I’m ready for it!
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In summary, the journey through aging is one of growth, resilience, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Each decade brings new perspectives, joy, and the freedom to express oneself. Here’s to celebrating every moment!
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