One reason for this blog is for legacy’s sake. I know that it is presumptuous to assume people will want to know about my life, but if they do, I want them to be able to find an account. I want to leave as much behind as possible. If you are familiar with the Native American Medicine Wheel, you will understand when I say I am in the west, my sunset years. Some think I am being morbid or negative, but I think I am being realistic and positive. Sunsets are often beautiful.
A friend recently asked me how old I see myself or feel inside. I surprised myself by answering, “a woman in her seventies”. I am seventy-six. The surprise was I said it with pride. Oh, not that I have not looked back with longing, but in that moment sitting under a shade tree visiting with a dear friend, I was more than content to be where I was and who I am. Even a year ago, I could not have said that. For years I have corrected people who compliment me by telling me I do not look or act my age. I tell them I do look and act my age – just not their preconceived view of my age.
In my sixties, I went through a doom and disaster worry stage. I dwelt on being single, female, low income, and getting older. I was sure my life would not get better. My focus was on maintaining. None of that has changed, but I do not worry about it, as much.
On this blog, I will share some of my past and present journey in hopes of others feeling a bit better about aging. One of the privileges of being my age is some people think I have surely learned something worth sharing. At one point I thought my best advise was don’t cut your own hair. Now I think i have some good advice. Fight the physical side of aging by taking care of your body, but do not fight against the fact you are aging. We all are. Fight any negative attitude about aging. Do not miss the beauty of any part of your life, no matter your age.
Listening to “Betty Jean” – right side bar or bottom of the blog will give you a bit of my journey.
