STATE OF THE UNION

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 5^th. 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.