Aging is a challenging process. The mind is not as quick, and short-term memory is fleeting. The physical body is not as strong or agile. New aches and pains, especially arthritis, show up with increased frequency. The reinforcement and reward from family raising activities and work live more in the memories. I am reluctant to drive a car at night and participate in late night activities. Sleep is never certain. There is more in past life than in future life.
But I accept aging and the changes that accompany growing older. I know that one’s life is fleeting; everyone is born, and everyone dies. In my ancestry research, every ancestor has a birth date and a date of death, as will I.
But it is also a good time of life. The pressures of work are past. My blood pressure has dropped so much since retiring that I no longer need or use medication to lower it.
My children provide me much pride. So much time and effort goes into raising children, it is nice to see such good results. Andrew and Ross are wonderful people and successful in their chosen careers. Andrew and his wife Davida are foreign service officers representing America in their varied State Department posts. He was the youngest foreign service officer in the State Department when he first joined. And he and Davida are exemplary parents to my three grandchildren.
Ross is a partner at the prestigious law firm of Gibbs and Bruns in Houston. He recently married Kaylen Burke, whom is a terrific partner. My children’s values and success makes me think the years of family time and engagement were well worth it.
After thirty years of marriage and late in life, I was divorced, which was a particularly painful process. Now several years later, I am fortunate to have Patti Kurtz in my life. She and I went to college together but did not know each other while at Indiana University. She is a retired teacher and school principal. The second time around for me has been a blessing.
Relieved of the need to work and having achieved financial success, I can pursue interests I have always had but no time to spend. My ancestry research over the past decade has uncovered my history and the complex human connections which led to me and who I am. My writing has blossomed with award winning books on both fun and serious topics.
I have been able to give back and help others through my scholarship programs. And I have been able to keep in touch with the newest generation of students, which helps keep me young in attitude despite chronological progression. I have served on several public committees helping government and my fellow citizens. I never had the time and resources for these activities in the past.
I have a most fortunate lifestyle, owning a condominium in downtown San Diego overlooking the San Diego Bay and the constant parade of passing ships. I sold my large home in Del Mar which had appreciated greatly, and the funds allowed me to retire debt and buy a second condominium home in Montecito in Santa Barbara near the ocean. What a nice life.
It is hard to fathom that this kid from Berwyn, Illinois, raised by a single mother, always lacking funds, could now be living such a comfortable life and helping others access opportunities. I have much to be thankful for. I feel blessed.