Am I getting older? No. I am just chronologically gifted! in fact, I feel proud to be a member of the octogenarian club.
What is the Art of Aging? Art refers to a certain skill. So, the Art of Aging means the skill to age gracefully and face reality.
Most people fear old age. Whether you like it or not, aging happens since the day you were born. You need to accept growing old; it is inevitable.
It is a part of life. If you are 80+ like me, think you are among the lucky ones to survive past 80.
You have entered a new phase of learning. Regardless of how you have lived in the past, you will gain new perspectives about life.
No doubt, you will face new challenges, both physically and mentally.A lot of weird stuff may be happening to your body. Lifting weights, running or climbing the stairs aren't exactly things to do after 80. Your food menu may change - not by choice but more by necessity. You may tend to forget many things like your glasses, keys and names. People around you may start treating lightly of what you say-some may become indifferent.
You have more time to pursue things that make you happy. There are many things that can engage you positively with least disturbance to others. Enjoy the beauty of nature around you- see the wonderful colors of leaves and flowers, listen to the birds chirping, admire the beauty and innocense of little children, grow small plants and get excited when you harvest a produce -there are so many such nice pastimes for you.
If you are a religious person, you can perform a puja at home or read some shlokas. If you are good in expressing yourself, write articles of interest.
Choose your attitude - Be always positive in your thinking and talking. Try and enjoy the food you eat even if it is not your favourite. Gauge how people feel when they are with you. Do they feel comfortable? Laugh with them, inspire them, encourage them and bless them for a wonderful life. Avoid arguments.
In Mahabharata, there is an interesting epiosde called "Yaksha Prashna." In this episode, Yama Dharmaraja in the form of an Yaksha asks many questions to Yudhisthira, the eldest of Pandavas. I recall two of the questions and answers that seem most relevant to seniors:
Question: What is the most surprising thing in this world?
Answer: The most surprising thing is, though all humans know they are mortal, everybody goes about their life as if they are going to live forever.
Question: What is the greatest happiness?
Answer: Contentment
Remember these wonderful responses by the wise Yudishtra.
In short, the Art of Aging is to find your own ways to enter the most exciting and perhaps the final phase of life!
