Monday, August 15, 2011
Getting old ain't for Sissies
My Dad was fond of saying thet getting old wasn't for sissies and that "it beats the alternative". As I reach my retirement I now realize how true those words are. I have had back trouble since I was in my 20s and even had back sugery 25 years ago. Still, my back flares up occassionally and unfortunately it illicits sympathy from friends and colleagues. Although nice to know how much they care and I really do appreciate it, it makes me feel like the old man I feel when these episodes occur. I guess I need to be more gracious and accept that getting old is better than not and enjoy the occassional "aww, so sorry" and "I hope you are feeling better" with the compassion in which it is given and go on with it. That's all I have to say now.
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I try to not think of myself as old. I'm probably more fit now at 48 than I was in my 20's and I think there's room for improvement if I keep on exercising by body and brain...
ReplyDeleteMy mom who is now 85 still thinks of herself as a young-minded girl - (and it's not an Alzheimer's thing). I've always tried to remember that and keep thinking in those terms for myself - keep a young mind, be a lifelong learner. Physically her body is about worn-out and when I see her I am scared (perhaps) into keeping myself fit. It seems to be working! LOL.
Sure the flesh is weak on some days, but I think one's mind can help the body to keep on truckin'. I do yoga once a week among other activities. I really enjoy it, but that's not for everyone. It releases all kinds of endorphins and feels great!
I hope you can find an activity that gets your body flowing too and doesn't hurt your back. Don't wait, start as soon as you're well enough to try.