On Becoming "That" Generation

One of my mother's dear friends passed away this week. I'm sure she is the guest of honor at the coffee party that Mom is graciously hosting in her honor. Pour the coffee and cut the pie - just a sliver please.

So very many of "that" generation, my parent's generation, are gone now. And as each one slips away we all edge up a little bit on the ladder. I'm really not sure how I feel about being "old." I used to jokingly say I was on the edge of old. Now, instead of just dipping my toes in the water, I think perhaps I'm wading in the shallow end. I actually don't feel old, however I sense that I am perceived as old. It's mirrored back to me in the eyes of the carry-out boy at the grocery store, and in the extra effort made to hold doors open for me... and then there's all the "ma'am" references.

 

Through the years I've always pretty much ignored what age I am. But as those numbers get bigger this body I live in doesn't let me ignore it as easily. So, the question becomes how to be the best older person I can be, and I have been thinking about this very subject a lot lately.

As in all phases of life there is no instruction manual other than the observations we have made of those who have travelled this road before us. So I have compiled my own manual...

    *maintain friendships with younger women who provide a different perspective on life
    *stay abreast of current affairs to give me a better understanding of the world around me
    *work to understand and use new technology in order to stay relevant
    *find new interests and learn new skills so that my days will be full and interesting
    *be open to new experiences and friendships for there's no telling what might await
    *treasure old friends with whom I share a common history as those connections are precious
    *exercise my brain with games and puzzles using the many apps available on my iPad
    *spend time with children as their curiosity and enthusiasm is contagious

 

There are certainly other, more personal goals on my list, and no doubt your manual would read differently. I am a constant work in progress when it comes to the following traits which I feel are important: be kind - listen well  - speak gently.

 

I don't know where you are on your journey. If you are still young, watch and learn from the older women in your life that you admire. And if, like me, you are entering or are in your older, mature years keep in mind that they're watching!.

Until next time...

Journey on,
Gail