Maggie Kuhn became a woman to be reckoned with when she was forced to leave her job at the age of 65. Because of that and the deplorable conditions of nursing homes at the time, she formed the Gray Panthers movement. In 1970 it was mandatory to retire at the age of 65. She also was caring for her own disabled mother and a brother who suffered from mental illness.
She became an activist not only for the aging in America, but also for young people, stating that both ends of the spectrum were a resource that had gone untapped for generations The Gray Panthers took on other issues as well.
Maggie had a great outlook on the value of growing old. I agree with her philosophy for the most part. I do believe that the elderly (65 and over) have a very useful place in society. We don’t need to be condemned to a recliner for the rest of our lives, eating chocolates and preparing for our funerals. We still have much to offer. Thankfully the mandatory retirement age has been lifted, but fewer jobs are available for us old fogies because we can’t physically do what we used to. However, if we still possess our mental abilities, there’s no stopping us. We can provide mountains of experience to the young generation – giving them tools for their futures and encouragement for the here and now.
If we have a passion for something, we have the means to provide that same passion to someone else. When we reach that “actual” time of retirement, there are so many ways to keep living. If we opt for the recliner and chocolates, we can be sure that the funeral will soon follow. The minute we stop doing – is when we stop living.
When it came time for us to place my mother in law in a nursing home, it was heartbreaking, but she suffered from mental illness and this was the best thing for her. Her new residence caused her to thrive and she went on to live there for several years.
My own mother died in a hospital bed, but time she spent with us for the last seven years of her life were full of an exemplary example for our children and grandchildren. Those few years also served as a time of togetherness for her and me.
Now as my husband and I approach our 76th year of life, we could call it quits and give in to the stereotypical elderly couple – who has their share of accidents, some health issues and less energy than when we were 50. On the other hand, we can still hold classes for others – teaching them the love of art and theater – doing our own housework, grocery shopping, write a blog or creating art every day. We can even shovel five inches of snow off our driveway (AGAIN!)
Growing old doesn’t have to be a death sentence. It’s all a matter of attitude. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to lean on the One who carries all our burdens.
atimetoshare.me 
Positive and uplifting!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
That was very good Kathy. And I try to put myself in your shoes when I read your articles like this. I try to imagine what I’ll be thinking when and if I’m ever in your place.
And leaving your wisdom here will be helping others when you can’t write anymore. So what you’re doing is more than just advice, it’s your impression left on the world after you’re gone. ☺
LikeLiked by 1 person
In response to the comment I just now left. Have you ever thought about the blessing that your posts are?
Yesteryear, maybe someone would keep a journal or something, and very few people would ever see it.
But now…Kathy’s journal is published worldwide, and is accessible to billions of people for all of the foreseeable future, (at least until the end of the world).
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so very kind to say these things. If I can help another person along the way, I have followed Jesus command to tell others about him. What I do is not for personal gI. But to bring glory to God. You are the same way😍
LikeLiked by 1 person
Personal gain is what I meant to say😜
LikeLiked by 2 people
I love this! I believe it was Elisabeth Elliot who said something to the effect that we should not look on old age as the end, but the opportunity to age with grace. Every season brings an opportunity to bless others in different ways!
I appreciate your blog and your wisdom so much. God be with you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much for your kindness. Whenever we can affect another positively we’re fulfilling God’s will.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kathy really love this! Amen and Amen. As I used to say to my elderly ressies “Use it or lose it!!” Very true adage. It’s so wonderful that you’ve got each other 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Indeed it is. We are a great team and God is at the head of our house. Thanks for your kind words 😍
LikeLiked by 1 person
You shoveled only five inches? Some parts of your area got over 16 inches.
LikeLiked by 1 person
We were on the northern edge of it. Our so. Lives on the south side of Minneapolis and he had about 12. We were lucky!
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is wonderful Kathy. My parents are in the mid 80’s and still in their own home. They go every week to the nursing home to play bingo with the residents. My mom makes soup for those in need and is always sending cards to those who need them. In contrast my in-laws (the same ages) have taken to their chairs and sit all day and watch tv. Their lives have gotten so very small and their outlook on life is so different than my folks. It is hard to know what to do for them to bring back the joy. My sister in law and I have made our motto: “You sit …. you die.” We pray to be active, giving and full of the joy of life as we age. This post was a great reminder to keep active and engaged.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love that motto. We are allowed
A short time on this earth. We should make the most of every second. Thanks for your words of encouragement
LikeLiked by 1 person
Now, that’s the spirit!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely. As a younger person, i wish I had more contact with older generations (besides my parents and their social circle). I think a lot is lost through our society’s segregation of the ages.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You can lean on me anytime😍
LikeLike
Thanks!
LikeLiked by 1 person