Not for the first time, my lovely little chicks, am I musing upon the subject of the A-word - ageing, that is. I do this often, largely because Im 67, and frankly, its a bit of a shock. I mean, I didnt used to be this old... However, somethings just occurred rather forcibly. We never stop hearing about the problems of an ageing population, mainly with reference to the grim stuff - putting pressure on medical resources. But supposing, to take myself as an example, I were to live say another 40 years (which is technically possible) and I managed to keep fairly fit and active. What would I DO with that time? Well, of course, being a writer Id continue to write (if anyone wanted my stuff, of course) and continue to give talks. But theres still an underlying feeling that Id want to make the most of it, train up for something else as well... maybe get a second career... Theres no reason (or few reasons) why I shouldnt do that. But I suddenly feel the power of the consensus on me. People simply havent ever had this EXPANDED sense of adventure built into us. Weve never been taught to look at life as possibly extending to a VERY ripe old age. People watch their families growing up, retire and, even if they have a great time, deep down expect to get ill and die at say 80 or max, 90. Its programmed into us. AND IT SODDING SHOULDNT BE. Where did all this musing come from? I was reading about over-60s models being the rage now, and suddenly there I was with the extraordinary sense of a great weight lifting from my shoulders...
Posted on: Tue, 15 Jul 2014 13:56:59 +0000
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