I am now 71 years of age.

I find it hard to believe and even understand.

Fifty years where have they gone, Bob Seger and I ask one another.

Recently, a friend who turned 80 sent a list of things he had learned. That list, with some modifications, seems to apply to me. 

I edited this slightly to meet my understandings of my life.

#1 After loving my parents, my spouse, my “children,” my friends, now I have started loving and forgiving myself.

#2 I have finally realized that I am not “Atlas.” The world does not rest on my shoulders.

#3 I no longer bargain with vegetable, fruit, garden vendors, and others who provide me services and goods. A few pennies more will not burn a hole in my pocket, but it might help the poor fellow save for his daughter’s school fees, their son’s cancer treatments, or even their retirement.

#4 I pay my waitress a big tip. The extra money might bring a smile to her face. She is toiling much harder for a living than me.

#5 I stopped telling the elderly that they’ve already told that story many times, as my wife often reminds me because I now do the same thing. These stories allow me to walk down memory lane and relive the past, and sometimes I want to do that.

#6 I have learned not to correct people, even when I know they are wrong. The onus of making everyone perfect is not on me. Peace is more precious than perfection.

#7 I give compliments freely and generously and often. Compliments are a mood enhancer not only for the recipient but also for me. And a small tip for the recipient of a compliment: never, NEVER turn it down;  say “Thank You.”

#8 I have learned not to bother about a crease or a spot on my shirt or pants. Personality speaks louder than appearances.

#9 I walk away from people who don’t value me. They might not know my worth, but I do.

#10 I remain calm when someone plays dirty to outrun me in the rat race. I am not a rat, and neither am I in any race.

#11 I am learning not to be embarrassed by my emotions. It’s my emotions that make me human.

#12 I have learned that it’s better to drop the ego than break a relationship. My ego will keep me aloof, whereas I will never be alone with relationships. I write letters of amending and ask for forgiveness for my youthful foolish, and often hurtful decisions.

#13 I have learned to live each day as if it’s the last. After all, it might be the last!

#14 I am doing what makes me happy. I am responsible for my happiness, and I owe it to myself. Happiness is a choice. You can be happy at any time, just choose to be! 

And that’s what I have to say about that.