Random Thoughts on Aging
"As we grow old...the beauty steals inward"
Ralph Waldo Emerson
As we grow old, our skeletons push outward. Our skin thins, sags, becomes translucent, revealing the bones beneath. The bones which have always been there holding us up, getting us through, are eager to announce their presence. Why do we fight it? Is a large, old Oak tree less appealing than a sapling? And let's not forget the wine analogy. People who are full of years have character. They've beat the odds, survived, and should wear their "uniform" proudly.
As we age, our true selves also emerge. The game-playing days of youth are spent. Ask for what you want. Wallow in emotions. Wear comfortable shoes. Have a sensible hair style. Say "I love you" with abandon. How freeing!
I work with elderly people. They are live, open history books. I'm amazed by their stories, their strength, and spirit. I marvel at their wisdom. There are good days and bad and they can't hide which kind they're having. They are from varying socioeconomic situations but have many commonalities. As we grow old, we grow more alike. So why fight it?
Relationships are the most important factor in having a positive aging experience. The circle grows smaller the more frail a person becomes, until only the most loyal family members and friends remain. They are the marrow. In my work I've observed people who have one, paid aide as their only daily contact and I've observed people who have several family members who check on them daily. If we spend our lives strengthening bonds with others, we will have strength to draw upon in our later years.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
As we grow old, our skeletons push outward. Our skin thins, sags, becomes translucent, revealing the bones beneath. The bones which have always been there holding us up, getting us through, are eager to announce their presence. Why do we fight it? Is a large, old Oak tree less appealing than a sapling? And let's not forget the wine analogy. People who are full of years have character. They've beat the odds, survived, and should wear their "uniform" proudly.
As we age, our true selves also emerge. The game-playing days of youth are spent. Ask for what you want. Wallow in emotions. Wear comfortable shoes. Have a sensible hair style. Say "I love you" with abandon. How freeing!
I work with elderly people. They are live, open history books. I'm amazed by their stories, their strength, and spirit. I marvel at their wisdom. There are good days and bad and they can't hide which kind they're having. They are from varying socioeconomic situations but have many commonalities. As we grow old, we grow more alike. So why fight it?
Relationships are the most important factor in having a positive aging experience. The circle grows smaller the more frail a person becomes, until only the most loyal family members and friends remain. They are the marrow. In my work I've observed people who have one, paid aide as their only daily contact and I've observed people who have several family members who check on them daily. If we spend our lives strengthening bonds with others, we will have strength to draw upon in our later years.
Such wise observations, and so beautifully written. Shelli, I was just bemoaning the fact that our writers had been silent too long, and there was your post the very same day. Keep writing.
Reply to this