I first wrote this as a poem, but it better suits as one of those blog list things – you know – where unsolicited advice is given to others whether one is in a position to know or not . . . so here goes – my own personal list to those older than I – some advice from someone, who, as she approaches 60 in the not-so-distant future, finds it more than amusing that she would think on ‘the old’ as someone other than herself –
[SIDE NOTE: The old tell me quite a lot – we spend much time together and they have much to offer – but – isn’t there always? – there are a few things I’d like to pay forward – some wisdom of the one younger watching the panorama unfold before you as you clear the path for me –]
1. There is thank you, of course, but there is also – listen to us – the ones who come not before, but after, for we have things to teach as well – letting go gracefully isn’t a one-way street, you know – don’t be mad at us because you’re old and we’re not yet: learn something new today . . .
2. Don’t complain about us – the ones younger than you – jealousy is not fashion-forward.
3. If more than 5 minutes of your day are devoted to a review of health, try reading a good book – it’ll give you something else to talk about.
4. Don’t use your age as license to say whatever you want no matter how unkind – it’s always wrong to be unkind.
5. I don’t comment negatively about your hair-style – so please don’t criticize mine (goes for piercings, tattoos, and clothing too).
6. Smile more – the pain is real and present, but somehow when you find something else to think about its presence fades.
7. Love us, notice us, include us, like you want us to love, notice and include you.
Okay, it’s your turn. What’s your advice for those coming after?
[SIDE NOTE: The old tell me quite a lot – we spend much time together and they have much to offer – but – isn’t there always? – there are a few things I’d like to pay forward – some wisdom of the one younger watching the panorama unfold before you as you clear the path for me –]
1. There is thank you, of course, but there is also – listen to us – the ones who come not before, but after, for we have things to teach as well – letting go gracefully isn’t a one-way street, you know – don’t be mad at us because you’re old and we’re not yet: learn something new today . . .
2. Don’t complain about us – the ones younger than you – jealousy is not fashion-forward.
3. If more than 5 minutes of your day are devoted to a review of health, try reading a good book – it’ll give you something else to talk about.
4. Don’t use your age as license to say whatever you want no matter how unkind – it’s always wrong to be unkind.
5. I don’t comment negatively about your hair-style – so please don’t criticize mine (goes for piercings, tattoos, and clothing too).
6. Smile more – the pain is real and present, but somehow when you find something else to think about its presence fades.
7. Love us, notice us, include us, like you want us to love, notice and include you.
Okay, it’s your turn. What’s your advice for those coming after?
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