Aging is a Verb

By Charles LaFond, ISR Senior Director Development

Aging is a tricky topic. I notice that many people dislike discussing it. We live in a culture of hair dyes, facelifts, and elastic belly girdles. 

I heard an advertisement recently for a financial planning company. They asked, “What do you want out of life?”  They listed horseback riding, pottery lessons, cooking classes, and travel. Then the announcer said, “We can set you up so you can do them forever!” It sounded attractive until I realized that this was a lie. We will not live forever, no matter how well-funded our retirement may be. The longing for an elixir that assures eternal youth is an old lie. 

The word “aging” has become a verb in new ways in my life. Some see aging as a bad thing, refusing to admit to it happening to them or within them. Others embrace aging, loving some of the new things aging brings, such as grandchildren that visit (and then leave!). I like the brain’s new fluidity and having a deeper mental reference library of experiences to draw when making better choices while hating increased weakness, night fears, and a tiny bladder.

The photo above is taken of a table by my front door. Lit 24 hours a day, I see it often. On it are things that remind me to slow down.

To the left is a ceramic, beaded skull from a Mexican holiday. It reminds me that death is inevitable, and so embrace its inevitability by living every day to its fullest regardless of whatever weaknesses and vulnerabilities may come with aging. Next to it is a small ceramic bowl of marbles given to me when I left the monastery – friends gave them to me to remind me to enjoy playfulness. And behind that bowl is a photo of me, as a baby, in my sister’s arms. It reminds me to think about those who love and cherish me.

Life is full of beauty and loss. Such is its contract. Love it. All of it. The youth, the middle age, and even the aging. All three bring gifts better than any holiday will.