Some Good Things To Cheer On Turning Seventy-Nine and Some Downers

Summary

Richard Armstrong reflects on turning 79, sharing the positive aspects (cheers) and challenges (downers) of aging, ultimately expressing contentment with his life.

Abstract

At 79, Richard Armstrong takes a moment to evaluate his life, acknowledging the mix of positives and negatives that come with advanced age. He celebrates the respect and love he receives from family and friends, the joy of storytelling to younger generations, and the deep bonds formed over a long life, including a 51-year marriage. However, he also faces the realities of aging, such as physical limitations and the need to declutter for his children's sake. Despite the downers, Richard emphasizes his happiness and commitment to maintaining a positive outlook, inviting readers to consider their own happiness at their current age.

Opinions

Richard values the respect and acceptance he receives from loved ones as he ages.
He finds joy in being a living historical record for his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
The necessity of napping and the presence of long-time friends are seen as benefits of reaching his age.
He cherishes his long-lasting marriage as a priceless aspect of his life.
Richard is realistic about the physical declines associated with aging, such as reduced mobility and health issues.
He acknowledges the finite nature of his time and the importance of preparing for the future to ease the burden on his children.
Despite the challenges, Richard's outlook remains overwhelmingly positive, and he actively chooses to focus on the good in his life.
He encourages readers to reflect on their own happiness and life satisfaction at whatever age they may be.

To be content in our older age is to pump more positives into our allotted years

I’m 79 and knocking on the door marked “Elderly.” Please don’t lock the door when I reach for the doorknob. I’ll dance into my 80s then, but not now.

Now and then, I take inventory of my life’s journey. It’s a reality check. I know some of us do not like to face reality at this point in life. I understand.

“Face reality as it is, not as you wish it to be.” Peter Koestenbaum

Anyway, it is beneficial to take stock of what’s working in your life. You read my headline; I had a birthday, I’m 79. There are a few things that come to mind about my age.

Cheers

Not one person asked me to move anything; not even a lamp.

Family and friends welcome me in, and I don’t have to say anything. Being present with them is all they ask.

Our five adult children love me and keep in touch.

At my age, I’m a relic. Dictonary.com defines me as an object, [person], surviving from an earlier time. Especially one of historical or sentimental interest.

Grandchildren, nieces, and nephews like to hear my stories of yesteryear. See the previous statement.

Taking an afternoon nap is no longer an option. It’s a need.

I have the benefit of a couple of long-time friends.

My marriage of 51 years is priceless.

Time has been good for my wife and me.

Downers

Now I have a limited timeline to walk the green, green grass of home.

I need to declutter the house so my adult children will have less to do at my demise.

Running is a thing of the past, now slow-walking is more my speed.

Arthritis has done its dirty work on my body parts.

My heart and hypertension specialists have become my doctor friends.

Some Good Things To Cheer On Turning 79 and Some Downers

To be content in our older age is to pump more positives into our allotted years

Cheers

Downers

I hope you noticed — my cheers overwhelm my downers

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