From size 18-20 to size 12-14. This
has been a very good year. I can touch my toes once again from a
standing position. I can remember when I had difficulty tying my
shoes from a sitting position. My T'ai Chi instructor Min has added
exercises to our morning routine. Later today I am due to go to a gym
with a neighbor who is allowed to bring a guest. I look forward to
that as much as I used to look forward to going out to eat.
I'm due to turn seventy on March 5th.
I feel 40.
I had no idea when I began this blog
that I would go through such a change this year. I just knew I was
one year short of seventy, and the ten year markers of birthdays
always cause me to reappraise my life.
I live in senior housing, so I have a
good-sized sampling of people in their 70's, 80's and even 90's just
outside my door. I've had several years to watch people around me to
see if there was anyone I would like to emulate. The people I watched
the most are in their 80's and 90's and are still very active
physically. Their minds are sharp and they are fun to listen to. I
want that for myself.
This past year has been the best year
of my life. Something clicked into place for me this year. I feel as
if I have finally caught up with myself. I'm looking forward to
crossing the threshold into the 70's. I'm chuck full of enthusiastic
curiosity about what I will do and who I will become. Some of us are
late bloomers. We save the best for last.
I've spent many years exploring myself
and mining my own gold. As I was working at that, it didn't dawn on
me that I would wind up benefiting from the practice. I just knew it
was important to get to know myself and make good use of any gifts I
had. I believe we all have that responsibility. As I was raising my
children I told them, “There will be no privileges without
responsibilities.” I accepted responsibilities as a way of life.
Somewhere along the line, though, my privileges began adding up while
I wasn't paying attention.
I have no debts. I am so healthy my
doctor wants to make me his poster child. I have a wealth of
incredible and gifted friends. I have time to do whatever pleases me.
I have more than hope for the future. I have joy in the present.
