Many readers of this column know the advantages of getting older. We are all lucky to have that opportunity. We know some of the disadvantages as well, but we'll let them rest.
Today's column may just be a review for many of you. Remember how we would review our notes when preparing for tests in school days?
After reviewing today's list you may wish to share some ideas of yours with me, those in the positive vein.
We don't choose to dwell on disadvantages. And so the advantages of getting older:
r Nobody expects us to run anymore. I look in the YMCA at the hand ball courts where I used to do a lot of running, sweating and hand abuse. No more! "Hurry ups" are infrequent too, and even much nicer are those younger individuals who noting that age, clear your path, hold doors open for you and have a friendly smile and greeting. We can even help Boy Scouts earn their merit badges. Nothing could be "fina" even in Carolina.
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r There is very little to learn the hard way anymore. We've been down that road, around that corner and up that hill more times than you can shake a stick at. We aren't the easy marks we once were. Advertisements aren't that dollar drawing intriguing; con men and frequent mail requests for money ultimately discover that they are wasting their time and postage.
r Things we buy aren't as likely to wear out. Even better, you don't have to buy as often. Have you noticed how many items hanging in the closet aren't worn much? One problem for men is the one of keeping the family members from buying us more shirts. What in the devil are we going to do with all those shirts?
r Our vision and hearing won't get much worse. Now, if we can just remember where we laid those aids last night. Big advantage? Turn the hearing aid down when noise level gets too high.
r Aren't all these new-fangled technological advantages something? And better yet, there are newer models coming out every year. If we can't reprogram them when necessary, a neighbor kid can quickly handle the job.
r Our secrets are safe with our friends. They can't remember them either. That makes visiting much easier and safer to expound.
r Our long term investment in health insurance is finally paying off.
r We can take a nap whenever the notion occurs. We aren't scheduled for each and every hour of the day. If somebody thinks we are, they can leave their message on the answering machine.
r We have body joints, plus a bit of arthritis, that lessens our dependence of the National Weather Service and our local weather person.
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r We get complements freely and often: "My you are looking good." They come from friends and family wishing us well and understanding that we understand as well.
r We don't have to watch our step much anymore; we aren't really going anywhere.
Older readers will have others to share, and I'll appreciate receiving them.
Bernie Hughes, Ed.D, is a retired educator who resides in Superior. He can be reached at bernie3024@centurytel.net .
