Centenarian

I watched a show about the world's oldest people tonight (all over a hundred.) Many were still living at home after a hundred and several were still getting around on their own, walking to restaurants, performing in public singing, or playing an instrument. Most were still very aware of the world around them.

Their thoughts about their longevity varied from it must be God's will, to organic food and exercise, to keep on working (yes, one man still worked!) One smoked and drank all his life, another never did either. A few felt they'd lived too long, most were pretty upbeat people with a sense of humor.

It seems like the people in my family have always thought about growing old. It's almost like they can't wait. I'm not sure what that's about. Maybe because if you are old enough, you finally have the right to do more of what you want without guilt.

My mother died at 58. My father was old before his time, but finally died at 73. Two of my siblings seem years older than the other two of us, but a lot of that is the way they think. I am almost 68 and really don't feel much different than I did in my forties, but I have a lot to live for (and that may be the real secret.)

Had I died at 58 I would never have met Bestest, Some of my best years have been because I met him. He's shown me who I am and helped me find the best in me. That might be the elixir of youth in the end.

Whether I live another day, or another forty years, I hope I take advantage of the time to be happy and useful.