Sixty something: The daily struggles of being in your 60s

Well sixty somethings, another week has gone by and we are one more week closer to getting old. Still a way to go though! This week saw me walking every day except yesterday, as well as using my weights again and starting my Italian lesson in earnest.  

As I read through some recent SAS posts, it is all too clear to me that there are so many of us who struggle out there, even if we don’t want to admit it. It may not be every day or even every week, but we do struggle. Even a day every now and then of feeling like you just don’t know how you’ll make it, is one day too many. I don’t know why people find it hard to admit that they are having a hard time, but my guess it’s because you are frowned upon as whingers or never grateful. I have always tried to teach my kids to be able to discuss anything and those of you who follow my posts, know I talk about everything and anything. This is not a crime and although it might be boring to some, it sometimes saves me from going bonkers.

We all have problems of some sort. Some will say they don’t have any and I am happy for them, but then I think they must have a charmed life. I read today about someone who is struggling being able to walk after two knee operations. I know from experience with my hip operation that everyone is different and she will hear about all the people who had no problems. This is true, but also from experience, I have learned that there are just as many who have had some sort of setbacks. It’s not whinging if you tell people, it will probably help to talk about it. Some of us don’t have close living friends or relatives, some of us that do, find these relatives part of the problem. 

I read today the things that Dodo did to make her feel better. Although some of it would not suit everyone, there are things out there we can do to make us feel better. If we can make ourselves or someone else feel better, then we are on the right track. I know just getting out along the boardwalk with my dog the first time after four months gave me a tremendous boost, even though I was very slow.

So to all of you out there today who think you shouldn’t talk about your woes, if it helps, go for it. I’m sure there is someone who knows just how you feel.  I have had so much support from friends on SAS these past months and I know that I would have been in dire straits without it. I know there are people out there who will knock you, but they feel better doing that, so let ’em. Who cares? There are many more who will be there for you.  

To all the SAS friends I have, I thank you for always being there for me in a very difficult time of my life. For all those knockers, if it makes your day, so be it. Most of all, for all those out there who struggle with something, with physical or mental, that makes life as a sixty something a little harder to bear, remember there are lots of us. Stay as positive as you can, but don’t feel bad if you have a rotten week or day. You are entitled. Hey, you’ve been here on this earth long enough for THAT privilege at least.

Do you agree with Fran? Share your thoughts below.

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