Moving On

Ann Marie Mershon and her husband Jerry Wilkes enjoying a bike trip in Door County, Wisconsin.

It happens, you know. We’re all moving on. Each day we’re a little older, and before we know it, we’re shocked to see Mom or Dad staring back at us from the mirror. Scary. But then, with age comes wisdom, tolerance—and a plethora of physical ailments. Sigh…

In spite of my bum knee, plantar fasciitis, and dairy intolerance, I must say there’s no age I’d choose to return to. My life seems better every year. As you can see, I’m an optimist— an eternal optimist often accused of being a Pollyanna. In fact, I loved the movie. I was eleven when I watched Pollyanna five times at the Hopkins Theater. Rows of maroon velour seats with double love seats at the end of the row. The theater had a vast lobby, a special smoking area in the back, and even a balcony. No home videos back then. But I digress. Hayley Mills was my idol, even outstripping Annette Funicello. That was the year I became a Pollyanna.

For those of you who do remember Hayley and Annette, we’re all in the same boat, moving on, and hopefully making the most of every moment. As I launch this column, I ponder the elements involved in our process of moving on well:

Rolling (or bounding) out of bed to face each day, whether bright and early or more like noon. Now there’s a beginning!

Putting one foot in front of the other: plodding, walking, or running— whatever pace works best.

Pressing through frustrating situations, and hopefully brightening them with a smile or bit of humor.

Keeping informed about the world around us. It might be frustrating, but we make better personal decisions when we understand the context of family, community, country, and planet.

Getting outdoors every day to marvel at each cloud, smell a few blossoms, and take time to watch a bee meander through a garden. I’m fortunate to live in a wilderness that invigorates me whenever I leave the house. I’m dazzled each time I drive down the hill toward Lake Superior.

Exercising regularly, whether it’s lifting weights, swimming, biking or walking. I shoot for 10,000 steps a day and celebrate when it’s twice that—and I’m 72.

Making positive choices for our health, which might mean passing up that Snickers or snickerdoodle— but NOT always!

Exploring new places: perhaps a museum, a woodland path, a new city, or a country you’ve never visited. Expand your horizons!

Meeting new people, who open doors for us to new knowledge, opinions, activities, and experiences.

Keeping an open mind, perhaps biting our tongues when we disagree, trying on the other’s shoes as we listen to their perspectives. That seems to come easier as I age, though I know not for everyone.

Staying in contact with friends and family, crucial support systems as we struggle through life’s many challenges. They’re great to share our joys with as well.

Developing new interests and hobbies to keep your mind sharp and your days interesting. Take a class or buy a kit. Why not?

Giving to others, whether with money or time. As a retired teacher, I’m definitely not rich, but I’m retired and enjoy volunteering in my community. I think I owe it to the world to share my good fortune however I can.

And the list goes on.

In the coming months I’ll be exploring issues and sharing information about moving on, making the most of this amazing entity called life.

We only get one, you know.