Embracing Life
55
Double Nickels, Over-The-Hill, Senior Citizen -- however you choose to label this landmark anniversary of my birth, I survived five and one-half decades. Whoo-hoo, I am 55 years young!
Age has never been an important factor in my life. In prior years, when asked how old I was, I had to do the math in order to answer correctly. This birthday was definitely different. Not because of the social stigma (55 means you are old), but because that was my mother's age when she died. I feared this milestone for nearly 30 years.
My mother's early demise resulted from her lack of self-esteem, which led to addiction. She acted and looked much older than her earthly years. Witnessing her slow agonizing death from liver failure was a nightmare I will never forget.Combating my apprehension of reaching this arbitrary age was a very healthy process. It began about seven or eight years ago when an overwhelming subliminal sentiment permeated my soul. I felt as if time was running out for me too, and I needed to get my life in order. Ironically, my healing began when I admitted to having some of the same intrinsic insecurities as my mom. I knew I must learn from her mistakes.
Acquiring spiritual understanding was the beginning of my quest to find lifelong solutions. After visiting numerous religious institutions, I found a church and congregation providing pure love. With the help of family, friends and faith, I allowed avenues to open in order for me to tackle other obstacles.
Writing, exercising, traveling and taking care of my personal needs (and not just those of everyone else) helped me gain self-worth and discover my purpose in life. As the dreaded day drew near, my anxiety level lessened. Celebration replaced trepidation; gratitude replaced regrets; optimism replaced negativity. At age 55, I am in the prime of my life (emotionally, mentally and spiritually).
With this transformation, updating my picture for "Embracing Life" seemed an important item on my birthday bucket list. Readers did not recognize me when we met in person, and I saw a photograph of an individual lacking self-confidence. Albert Isaac, Editor of Senior Times, graciously granted my request. A photo of an older, yet much wiser writer now appears with my column.
Albert and I visited for a bit after the photo session. At some point during our conversation, I realized that I am more than a columnist for Senior Times. I am a Senior citizen. While I was excited to be a member of the subscribers I write for, I wondered what being a Senior really meant. Therefore, I did a little investigating.
In America, a person officially becomes a Senior citizen and becomes eligible for Medicare at the age of 65. However, we do not have to wait until 65 to enjoy the benefits of being a Senior.
If you are age 50 (or older) and are paying full price for travel expenses, banking, dining or shopping, consider researching your options. Senior discounts start when you turn 50; more concessions start at ages 55, 60, and 62.
At 50, we can join AARP (a membership organization leading positive social change through information, advocacy and service). Many chain restaurants, such as Krispy Kreme, give discounts to individuals at age 50. Greyhound reduces ticket rates on bus fares for their 55-year old customers. Most Applebee's Restaurants offer a Golden Apple Card to patrons when they turn 60, offering price cuts on dining. By age 65, we qualify for almost every Senior discount in the world.
Keep in touch with the activities and offers available by reading Senior Times. We will keep you informed of the many advantages in being over the age of 50.
Being a Senior does not mean life is over. In fact, I am truly just beginning to live fully. My biggest challenge now is embracing too many things at one time. I do not want to waste a single moment or escapade. Life is good and I want to experience everything it has to offer!
I agree wholeheartedly with comedian, George Burns. He said, "You can't help getting older, but you don't have to get old." §
