Do you remember George Carlin? He was quite a humorist who spoke on many subjects, including aging. The one I liked best was his thoughts on how to stay young. (This is my edited version.)
First he suggests we throw out all of the nonessential numbers, like age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. After all, isn’t that why you pay them?
Make sure you keep only cheerful friends, the grouches and grumpy ones will pull you down!
Keep your brain working and learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever—even ham radio. Remember, an idle mind is the devil’s workshop, and the devil’s family name is Alzheimer’s.
Enjoy the simple things. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you have to gasp for breath and tears roll down your cheeks.
Tears happen. It’s time to endure them, grieve and then move on. The only person who is with us our entire life is ourselves. So be alive while you are alive.
Surround yourself with love. Your home (Country Meadows) is your refuge—surround yourself with love, be it family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies or whatever.
Cherish your health. Eat healthy foods, exercise and be active. If your health is good, preserve it. If it is not so good, improve it. If you can’t improve it, get help.
Take trips, but don’t take guilt trips! Instead, go to the mall, visit stores, take country trips, visit a friend, take in a movie or just take a walk.
Express love. Tell people you love that you love them every chance you get.
Always remember: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath way!
Life’s journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally used up and worn out, shouting “MAN, WHAT A RIDE!”
Thank you for your words. I’m not presently living at Country Meadows but looking at it for the future. I just lost my youngest son to cancer and have been having a bit of difficulty with it. As I read your synopsis of what Geo. Carlin said about staying young. He did hit it on the head & you authored it magnificently. It’s just what I needed in my life. I was guilty of the opposite and you really “saved me” from continuing down that road and beginning to live my life. Thank You
We are very sorry to read about your loss. The death of a close loved one is very, very difficult to navigate. We’re so happy that Judy’s wonderful column gave you, and other readers, some great advice. Hang in there–it will get better!