And I especially liked the line "It is what it is." I've learned that so well by living in Mexico for the last 30 years. Life is what we make of it. Let's make it wonderful. Blue
Great post and happy to discover a kindred spirit. My friend Zelda (who lived to 104 3/4 — and taught me to always add the quarters past 100!) always said, “Look for the good.” Zelda is one of “my old ladies,” nine friends in their 90s and 100 who lit my way to 81!
"The best way to cultivate a positive attitude is to accept old age, rather than complain about it." It is SO SIMPLE when you put it like that, Gary! And true.
I notice that I don't complain (much) outwardly about arthritic pain in my thumbs. But I think I do inwardly, at least more than I want to do. So that's going to stop.
I'm going to see those twinges of pain from my body as a message to express love to it. That's a much better idea.
Jane, regarding the thumbs, the pain is enough, no sense in adding suffering on top. But I'm sure you already knew that. Thanks for reading and commenting, Jane.
My dad's way to accept Aging is treat it like a chronic disease. He always said he had a case of O.L.D. Adjust to the symptoms of it and manage them as best you can. Then, get on with enjoying yourself.
I like this frame of “20% happier” — feels both doable and generous. Acceptance as the real hack makes so much sense. I’ve found travel works the same way: things go sideways, you either crown yourself King of Suffering or lean into the story!
Gary, I absolutely love your writing! Your wisdom just pours out of your words. Bravo, sir! Attitude is everything. I especially loved how you likened aging to a grieving process for youth. Brilliant!
So good, Gary! Acceptance as bd even an excitement about what this stage of wisdom, freedom, authenticity can bring. As you say, people can see the difference in us when we move into this phase.
Thanks for the great article. Just knowing that I've always got something to look forward to. Even if it's just a meal or a show or a shower. Hopefully. Thanks again.
And I especially liked the line "It is what it is." I've learned that so well by living in Mexico for the last 30 years. Life is what we make of it. Let's make it wonderful. Blue
Yes, Karen, and how we think about our lives has a definite impact, good or bad. You have obviously figured that out. Thanks for commenting.
Great post and happy to discover a kindred spirit. My friend Zelda (who lived to 104 3/4 — and taught me to always add the quarters past 100!) always said, “Look for the good.” Zelda is one of “my old ladies,” nine friends in their 90s and 100 who lit my way to 81!
The Good In Us, Melinda--that should be our GPS. Zelda must have been amazing.
She was. And if you want to know more, she is throughout my latest book, "The Wisdom Whisperers: Golden Guides to a Long Life of Grit, Grace, and Laughter." Shameless plug, but I know you'll love it! https://www.amazon.com/dp/1640657134?ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_STE0PXNTJ7TFFR2NH0PE_3&bestFormat=true
"The best way to cultivate a positive attitude is to accept old age, rather than complain about it." It is SO SIMPLE when you put it like that, Gary! And true.
I notice that I don't complain (much) outwardly about arthritic pain in my thumbs. But I think I do inwardly, at least more than I want to do. So that's going to stop.
I'm going to see those twinges of pain from my body as a message to express love to it. That's a much better idea.
Jane, regarding the thumbs, the pain is enough, no sense in adding suffering on top. But I'm sure you already knew that. Thanks for reading and commenting, Jane.
My dad's way to accept Aging is treat it like a chronic disease. He always said he had a case of O.L.D. Adjust to the symptoms of it and manage them as best you can. Then, get on with enjoying yourself.
Well I've got a bad case of O.L.D. and I'm just going to accept it. Your dad had a good sense of humor.
I like a case of O.L.D. - did he ever say what it stood for, Lesley?
I like this frame of “20% happier” — feels both doable and generous. Acceptance as the real hack makes so much sense. I’ve found travel works the same way: things go sideways, you either crown yourself King of Suffering or lean into the story!
Perfectly said you guys. Thank you.
Gary, I absolutely love your writing! Your wisdom just pours out of your words. Bravo, sir! Attitude is everything. I especially loved how you likened aging to a grieving process for youth. Brilliant!
Now you've got me blushing, WWWT. Thanks for your kind words.
Oh good. I love making people blush.
So good, Gary! Acceptance as bd even an excitement about what this stage of wisdom, freedom, authenticity can bring. As you say, people can see the difference in us when we move into this phase.
Yes, Gayle, first accept (get in touch with reality) and everything is easier, and more enjoyable. Thanks for reading.
Optimism is the key to a joyful old age.
You can say that again, Victor.
Gary, I will!
Optimism is the key to a joyful old age.
Optimism fosters purpose, connection, and resilience, which help older adults navigate life’s transitions with greater ease.
Those who age with optimism tend to enjoy better physical health, stronger relationships, and a more profound sense of meaning in their daily lives.
And perhaps most beautifully, optimism in later years becomes a gift, radiating wisdom, joy, and hope to the generations that follow.
Super post Gary!
Thank you, Anne.
Helpful and well-written. Thank you.
Thanks for the great article. Just knowing that I've always got something to look forward to. Even if it's just a meal or a show or a shower. Hopefully. Thanks again.