Getting Old is a B, Does Not Have To Be

It is easy to be having one of those days. However, we rise, give thanks for still being on this side of the divots and face the morning sunrise of a new day.

My recent encounters with fellow septuagenarians have resulted in a common comment. Getting old is a B. My rejoinder is it does not have to be unless you let it be that way. The most profound summary I have found that encapsulates my suggestions in unlocking the pleasure of aging gracefully comes from realizing it is only a number and you are as young as you feel.

The gratitude here belongs to an article by Ms. Jill Rumbley-Beam. She laid it out in layman’s language without the need for a translator or a trainer. She listed 24 ways to feel young, invigorated with a pep in your step. I concurred on several of the points.

Show grace. It is defined in the dictionary as being courteous and kind. Everyone can have bad days. It may not be you today, but it may be that other person.

Look out your window for the sunset. Research shows that sunsets have many psychological effects that enhance long lasting satisfaction in life. Also, it has been shown that it can reduce stress.

Smile. Not only does it improve your face value, but also it is good exercise for the face. It is said that it takes 43 muscles to smile and only 11 muscles to frown. So, it would be really worthwhile to smile to burn more fat in your face.

Laugh often. Laughter cures a multitude of ills.

Listen. Do this especially with the birds and the sounds of nature. Also, it is especially good to just listen to the person in communication with you. By the way, look them in the eyes. They are the windows to the soul. However, the one thing you should not listen to is gossip.

Savor stillness. It was Woody Allen who said, “God is silent now, if man would just shut up.”

Rejoice. The sun rose or maybe not but thank God you did.

Enjoy that delight. Stay encouraged and be steadfast. As we hear from time to time. God is in control. Believe it, accept it and be ever so thankful He is.

Get involved. There are a plethora of organizations, causes, and situations that can use your energy, ideas, and willingness to get down in the riverbed of your community.

Eat. Plan and enjoy a wholesome meal at every opportunity. Your body will thank you and you will be better for it.

Drink. No, I am not pushing the usual liquid libations we may partake of from time to time. I am joining the chorus that encourages us to drink water at every opportunity. Every business meeting or social gathering I am present for, water is gladly accepted when asked and requested when not. Water is the ‘Pennzoil’ of the body. If you fail to keep the level up, a shutdown is in store for you.

Read. We are so fortunate in Cobb County. We have the premier library system in all of Georgia. The investment made was a deposit not only for your interests but also for your use and enjoyment.

Enjoy Nature. For me, there is something mystical about the Magnolia tree. It was that tree that identified the Slave Haven in Memphis when slaves were looking for refuge and freedom. They were told to look for the house that had the Magnolia trees in its front yard. You should try planting flowers and bulbs in season. You will be amazed and quite satisfied with the reward Mother Nature will yield to you.

I did not cover all 24 points mentioned by Ms. Rumbly- Bean, but I sure highlighted most of the ones that touch my life on a daily basis.

And finally, my other key sage advice: Keep moving in 2024 and beyond.