How Old is Old?!

How Old is Old?!

My grandfather was born in 1900. To be born at the turn of a new century was fascinating to me. I would ask him what it was like to live in the “olden days” assuming there was some big remarkable change from one century to the next. He would chuckle and say, “no, we just were trying to get by day by day” and no more.

Grandpa would sit on his front porch and watch the squirrels and the neighbors and talk about the weather. He often commented about that “old” man across the street who annoyed him because he didn’t bring his garbage cans in on time. One day I saw this “old” man neighbor, and I said, “grandpa, you are 85, and your neighbor looks about 60!”. He grinned and said, “yes, but he acts older than me!”.

And there you have it. How old is “old”? I have found myself saying this year, “I’m too old to pull an all-nighter” or “no, I’m too old to wear that dress” or “who wants to sit outside in the hot sun and watch a football game when I can be inside in the A/C, I’m too old for that.”

But really, am I too old? Or am I just making an informed choice because I’m wiser now?! I have decided I’m not too old to do anything I want to if I put my mind to it. I may have to do things at a different pace or take a break after cleaning out the garage in 90+ degree weather or slip in a nap when I feel like it. But I’m not too old for anything.

I have stopped saying “I’m too old for that…” and you know what, I no longer feel limited in what I want to achieve.

Like renting bikes on Chappaquidick Island and riding all day!

So, my friends, I challenge you to think like my grandpa, be young in your mind and heart no matter the number of birthdays or physical limitations. Just say YES to life! And find a way to live life to the fullest!

Love and Light,