A week before I spoke at the University on aging, it occurred to me that there were four “weapons” I considered essential to winning some battles with aging. While we will not win the war with aging, I think winning some battles is a good thing. Yesterday I experienced another epiphany, and I now realize some of these tools are more important than others.
Community, for example. I feel that living isolated or relatively isolated is a big mistake regardless of how comfortable you think you are. Being isolated may include the work you do, such as artistry. Yet, where and when is community part of your life? I argue that as we age, community moves to the very front of importance.
Relationships are why. Community is all about relationships and caring for each other as the need arises. Membership, fellowship, conversation, and dialogue are all essential to longevity. Having lunch and dinner together, sharing holidays, and enjoying the better parts of what it means to be a part of a group.
At one time, groups were essential for survival, and because a greater number of us are living longer, groups are more important than ever. Not being what and who we were is no small problem. Regardless of financial means, older people are different than who they once were. Not accepting this is allowing ignorance to control us. So, my answer, thanks to my epiphany, is to get with community when you can do the choosing instead of others choosing for you.
I age do I know—Maybe yes and maybe no—I will decide this
Sy
