Thoughts on Aging

I recently heard a quote made by Paulina Porizkova. She said, "Aging is a privilege, not a right."

This quote was stated on a show featuring aging Super Models (who all still looked FABULOUS, by the way...) and primarily they were speaking on how to defy the effects of aging on your skin. However, Paulina's quote resonated in my ears the rest of the day.

It's funny because I happened upon that program by accident just days after my 4 year old *Little* said, "Nana, you look old!"...needless to say, I was devastated! Granted it was a bad day, but she noticed that I was...A.G.I.N.G...

I have been watching my sweet daddy finalize the last few days, months maybe even year of his life. His time is definitely coming to an end and it saddens us all. The last time I saw my father face-to-face, we held hands and wept as we shared our immense love and appreciation for each other. There was nothing earth shattering said, just the sweet exchange of fond memories, tremendous gratitude (mostly on my part) and undying, eternal love. It was a precious moment that I will never, ever forget!

He is now 82 years old. He has lived a great life and although it has not been without its challenges and heartaches, it has been a life well-lived and a life that will be remembered by many. It has been a life of adventure and a life of wisdom. It has also been a life full of love and respect for others...It has been a life full of great successes and failures. But most importantly, it has been a life of great significance!

I think THAT is the deeper meaning behind Ms. Porizkova's comment, whether she meant it that way or not. Living IS a privilege. It is a great blessing to wake up every day with a clean slate to leave our mark upon.

As I do my best to moisturize, exercise and eat right, I cannot completely stop the physical effects of aging. I have a few extra aches and pains that I never before had. My hair is almost completely grey...very salt & pepper at the very least. My eyesight has diminished a bit but is easily correctable with "cheaters" and eventually Lasex. I don't have the stamina and energy that I once had and when I squat down it takes me a few moments longer to get up!

All of this is typical and pretty normal. In my heart of hearts I feel like I am still in my 30's. I am happy with who I am and I feel a bit wiser as a result of the experiences of my life. I share a deep and abiding love for life with my husband. I love the Lord and family means EVERYTHING to me...That is a PRIVILEGE!

There is no anti-wrinkle cream in the world that has more value than that...