by Carl Trudel

Created on: October 31, 2010

Memoirs: Growing Old

Age, the arch enemy of us all, regardless of our classification in society. It makes no difference whether we are wealthy, talented, highly skilled, or even extremely lucky, growing old is the natural process that cannot be halted. Many people become fixed on their age and seem to dwell on the fact that they are getting older. The need to fight the process is all around us in various forms. From products that will eliminate those aging lines to plastic surgery, people are in full battle against aging.

Myself, while currently in my 60’s, I view the process as a natural one, and rather than fight it, one should make the best of it and enjoy themselves in the process. While living in my generation can mean living with frequent pain in some cases, doctors will tell us that the best thing to do is to stay active. While I am not one for regimented exercise programs, I do lead a fairly active lifestyle. Some of my favorite activities are golfing and cycling.

I will never turn down an offer to hit the links when presented with the opportunity. And while I am not, by far, a very good golfer, I still enjoy the workout I get playing. Cycling is an activity that I really have a passion for. Not only is it good for my heart condition, but I truly enjoy it. It’s nothing for me to get on one of my bikes and be on the road for hours at a time. During the winter months I have a trainer in my garage which allows me to take my bike and make it into a stationary bike.

My time outside is not limited to just play, as I enjoy working in the yard also. A friend once asked me why one of my sons didn’t mow my lawn, to which I replied, ‘I consider it a form of exercise’. Realistically, I don’t do as much as I used to do out in the yard, but I do keep up with it regularly.

And so for me, it is important to view life in a positive manner and make the most out of every day. Considering all that I have been through in the past few years with my health, I consider myself extremely fortunate being able to wake up every day and continue growing old.

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