Old is not old when you're young at heart

by Andrea McCall

Once a week I try to take my mom for lunch. I love spending time with her because I truly believe she is the funniest, kindest person I know.

Last Thursday, on our regular day, I went and picked her up. My mom lives in an "assisted living" apartment. All meals are taken with the other residents, but each has their own place to live. She sits at the same table with the same people every day. Here is something that we talked about that became more relevant this weekend.

Mom: "It sure is getting cooler now. I need a jacket when I go out. Glady [a woman who sits at her table] was just going out for a walk with only a blouse and pants on. I told her she should get a jacket but she thought she would be okay. I told her that if she gets a little cold to turn around and come back in the building. You would think a woman of her age would be more careful."

Andrea: "How old do you think Glady is, Mom?"

Mom: "Oh I figure in her early eighties."

Andrea: Completely laughing out loud, "Mom, you are going to be 79 next month—a woman of her age?"

Mom:  With a little giggle, "I don't feel that old."

She really made me think about my age and how I really don't act it or feel it (I am a very young 42). Then I started to think about my brothers who are 12 and 15 years older than me (I was a surprise). I really wouldn't guess my brothers were their age. Both are very active, physically and socially. People love to be with our family when we are together because we are so much fun.

Then this weekend I was invited to a friend of a friend's birthday party (I would call him my acquaintance). I was there until 2:30 am dancing with one of his friends.  We had a great time.  This gentleman was in his 50's. When I told my other friend about my evening, she was shocked that I spent time with someone of his age because I tend to gravitate to a younger crowd.  I said it didn't matter because he didn't act his age—he was so young.

That was when I had my epiphany. I realized that "old" is a state of mind.

People have asked me why I don't like older men and I always reply, "Because they seem old." They don't listen to young music, they are very set in their ways and, sexually, they too focussed, not having fun and letting the act happen.

When I was around 36, I realized that there is only eleven years between 29 and 40.  With my mother being an excellent role model for me, I know I will never become "a woman of her age."

Comments

[Andrea McCall]

I think it is important to be surprised by how you look - that means you are still thinking young.

[Christy]

When she was in her 70s, my mom told me she was always surprised when she looked in the mirror and saw her white hair and wrinkles. She always thought of herself as still being in her mid-20s.

[valerie]

Andrea, I whole-heartedly agree!