Mary, Age 70
My name is Mary, almost 71 at summer’s end and am a California (Santa Monica) transplant to Boston since 2009. I’m grateful for many, many things but one in particular is having been brought up in CA with the culture of healthy living, exercise, nutrition, self-development and all that goes with “the beautiful” people. Folks, it’s one big Hollywood but if one chooses to concentrate (as I did) on the positive of the “La-La Land” culture (while keeping your head on your shoulders and staying grounded) this mind set pays of huge DIVIDENDS – as in my case.
Like most of my sisters out there, I have had my share of challenges both professionally and personally but like a horse with blinders on, I have always had that focus and confidence that sports coupled with education gives a woman: power, strength and independence. Above all, a POSITIVE attitude about everything and SELF love that will certainly come in handy in droves during our wonderful twilight years.
I LOVE aging; love it. And, once I accepted the fact that, unlike my girlfriends in CA who can afford at our age to still look fab like Jane Fonda, I’m doing it the old fashioned way and still look damn good: youthful, thin, athletic and well groomed to the best of my ability. I work at it: I love myself.
I have found that ATTITUDE plays a major role in ageing and if we focus on the negative and challenging side of it (health issues) we’ll stay stuck. Like classic cars, our body parts have begun to wear out so we deal with them the best we can – and move on. We do our best; that’s all we can do. But what we put in our head and hearts, the influences in our lives (toxic people), what we read, watch or listen to has EVERYTHING to do with it. This is my secret:
1) Count your blessings; 2) Exercise 3) Eat healthfully or pay the consequences 4) Concentrate on the GOOD in your life; 5) Seek out people who think like you and stay away from downers 6) READ all the great stuff on ageing and spiritualism – not necessarily religion
Above all, if depression plagues you, get help. Moving your body, for starters, will get those endorphins going but if you need motivation, please seek it. It’s imperative we make the most of every moment and our attitude, focus and commitment to OURSELVES is our only solution. Above all, LOVE yourself and don’t be a victim; just do your best because that’s what you are – the BEST!
Too bad we did not meet when you lived in Santa Monica Mary. I also grew up in California and have benefitted from the healthy life style. Thank you for reminding me of all of the positive aspects of this beautiful area, minus the traffic of course.
Thank you for the story.