…it just doesn’t matter how many years i have. I have lived life so intensely and fully, i have done my metaphoric dancing in the garden. Ok, some not so metaphoric occasiosn either, i am very comfortable in my own skin. Quit frankly, i have no intention at this stage to get to 70. The longevity of my family is there, but my body has been dealt a blow by the accident that makes me recognise quality, not quantity, is the key. I always felt that way anyway. However, medical science, the choice is actually more yours than mine – give me quality or give me death:)
However, in the years that i choose to remain here, i will absolutely love, laugh, LIVE - still with the same intensity and passion that has caused me so much joy and heartache, in equal measure, continue making my mistakes – painful, yes, but at least i have lived them. I would not be who i am today, with no regrets. I have learnt how to walk away without looking back. (Metaphorically, the walking is a bit of an issue at times;) )
“But still the compensations of age are huge. By the age of 70 we have discovered who we are and what we like. And because we realise that time is short and precious, we are more selective than hungry youth.
Yes, we can still have adventures, but we pick them carefully. We can still feel needed, not just by our families (and the nation depends on the time and skill of grandparents more than ever), but also by the charities who need enthusiastic volunteers.
We have an obligation not to allow ourselves to be shouldered as ide or stamped with an indelible sell-by date. Young people need us as role models if they are to enjoy the longevity doctors have predicted for them.
As U.S. President Teddy Roosevelt famously said: ‘Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.’”
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