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It’s official. I am now 63 years old. It’s okay though, really. I don’t mind talking about my age.

My husband and I have had exactly one conversation about age. It occurred 29 years ago, one month after I had finished chemotherapy. We were preparing to celebrate his birthday when he asked, “Don’t you get depressed about getting older?”

“Depressed?” I shouted. “I’ve been fighting for the past year for the privilege of getting older!”

No, I’m not depressed about aging. Even if I would try to deny my age, the mirror and the reading glasses strategically placed throughout my home would scream otherwise.

I’m thankful I didn’t die at 33. The list of people whose lives have been tragically cut short is endless.  I refuse to complain about getting older; it’s a blessing.

I want to squeeze all the life I can out of each day of the years that I’ve been granted.  I’m determined to live this life to the fullest.  There are no ordinary days for me. Every day holds something extraordinary if I just open my eyes and look for it.

Whatever your age, celebrate; and celebrate the ages of those around you!  I love the children, for their energy and enthusiasm invigorates me.  I love the young adults.  In them, I see parts of my past and I am flooded with memories of life when my own children were babies.  And I especially love those who have journeyed on this path of life a little longer than I have.  They know where the road may twist and turn and where the potholes may lie.  If I stay close and glean from their wisdom, I am sure to learn something.

May God grant more years to your life and more life to your years.

 

Ronny Michel may be reached at rmichel@rtconline.com.