Thanks to reader SKT who sent me the following post which came at the right time, just when I feel quite blue about life, especially with the recent demise of my 28 year old niece, my friend Elizabeth's father and also my friend who is now undergoing chemotherapy treatment for Stage 4B cancer that has spread to the pancreas, intestines, liver, bile duct and lymph nodes. :-( Life is so short, dear readers. Let's seize the day and live each day to the fullest!
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Many people feel unhappy, health-wise and security-wise, after 50/60 70/80 years of age owing to the diminishing importance given to them and their opinions. But, it need not be so, if only we understand the basic principles of life and follow them scrupulously.
Here are ten mantras to age gracefully, make life after retirement pleasant, enjoy and treasure the elder years of wisdom and intelligence at its best.
1. Never say 'I am aged':
There are three ages, chronological, biological, and psychological. The first is calculated based on our date of birth; the second is determined by the health conditions and the third is how old you feel you are. While we don't have control over the first, we can take care of our health with good diet, exercise and a cheerful attitude. A positive attitude and optimistic thinking can reverse the third age.
2. Health is wealth:
If you really love your kids and kin, taking care of yourself and your health should be your priority. Thus, you will not be a burden to them. Have an annual health check-up and take the prescribed medicines regularly. Take out a health care insurance coverage.
3. Money is important:
Money is essential for meeting the basic necessities of life, keeping good health and earning family respect and security. Don't spend beyond your means even for your children. You have lived for them throughout and it is time you enjoyed a harmonious life with your spouse. If your children are grateful they should take care of you. But never take it for granted.
4. Relaxation and recreation:
The most relaxing and recreating forces are healthy and religious attitudes, good sleep, music and laughter. Have faith in God, to sleep well, love learn good music, and see the fun side of life.
5. Time is precious:
It is almost like holding a horse's reins. When they are in your hands, you can control them. Imagine that every day you are born again. Yesterday is a paid cheque. Tomorrow is a promissory note. Today is ready cash; use it wisely. Live this moment.
6. Change is the only permanent thing:
We should accept change; it is inevitable. The only way to make sense out of change is to join the dance. Change has brought about many pleasant things. We should be happy that our children are blessed.
7. Enlightened selfishness:
Human beings are basically selfish. Whatever they do, they expect something in return. We should definitely be grateful to those who stood by us. But, our focus should be on the internal satisfaction and happiness we derive by doing good to others, without expecting anything in return.
8. Forget and forgive:
Don't be bothered too much about others' mistakes. We are not spiritual enough to show our other cheek when we are slapped on one cheek. But, for the sake of our own health and happiness, let us forgive and forget them. Otherwise, we will only be increasing our blood pressure.
9. Everything has a reason; a purpose:
Take life as it comes. Accept yourself as you are and also accept others for what they are. Everybody is unique and right in their own ways.
10. Overcome the fear of death:
We all know that one day we have to leave this world. Still we are afraid of death. We think that our spouse and children will be unable to withstand our loss. But, the truth is that no one is going to die for you; they may be depressed for some time. Time heals everything and they will carry on.
NOBODY GETS OUT OF THIS WORLD ALIVE!
Regardless How Far The Journey Is OR How Capable We Are, We Do Our Best To Reach Our Goal. This Is Perseverance At Its Best!
-Author Unknown-
michael Life, for everyone, is a one way journey which our final destination is death. It is how we get there that matters. The 10 points raised are indeed acts that can lead to a happy life.
Thanks for sharing.