Getting less young

It comes to us all...*

I guess being an old Fogy qualifies me to comment on what so many of us dread: getting old.

This post was prompted by the death of Val Kilmer, whom many might remember as Batman or from Top Gun alongside Tom Cruise.

Recently, after thinking about how old well-known celebrities look, I was reminded that many of them are my age—or younger.

Shit, do I really look that old?

Yep. But I don’t feel it. At least, not in my mind. Sure, I can’t walk as comfortably as I used to, and things that were once easy now feel almost impossible. But my brain still believes I’m just under 50, and that the so-called wisdom that spurts from my mouth (and pen) is simply my worldly experience popping to the fore.

Reflecting on the years gone by, I realize I should have kept exercising after I stopped cycling to my classes. I should have eaten better—or at least been more selective in what I chose to eat.

The truth is, life is all we have, and we must enjoy it the best we can. Moderation is key: reduce what’s bad for you, understand what puts you at risk, and embrace the pleasurable aspects of life—but in moderation, of course. Take better precautions when familiar tasks start to become more taxing.

More importantly, think young, not old. That mindset is what keeps us young, not miracle drugs or procedures that claim to turn back the clock. Change must be welcomed and adapted to, not fought against. Much of what technology has brought us has become a boon for the less young, even when it seems like just a plaything for the young.

And let’s clear up a myth: you do not really need more rest. Perhaps more frequent breaks because you don’t have the stamina you once did, but sleeping your time away? That’s for when you pass on to the next world, not now. Keep your brain working. Keep your body working. Keep yourself working. That way, your reason for waking up and getting up each day is much easier to find.

And finally—finally, part two—try teaching as a hobby. There are so many people out there, of all ages, who need help, guidance, or simply someone to listen. These interactions keep the mind sharp and push your thoughts forward rather than letting them stagnate.

Cheers.

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