A lot younger people think of people in their sixties as “old.”
I used to agree with that opinion. But now, in my sixties, I find that I’m free to do so much more than I ever imagined.
Red Flags. Of course, I’m finding out that I failed to take care of some important issues earlier in life, especially with my health. But that fact only serves as my motivation to begin taking better care of myself.
So, I’m hitting the walking trails more these days. And I’m appreciating the sunrises and sunsets a lot more.
Priorities. Earlier in life, I thought it was selfish to make myself a priority. But in my sixties, I see it’s one of the most important things I can do. In fact, how can I take care of others if I don’t take care of myself first?
Even the Bible supports this belief.
One of the teachers of religious law was standing there listening to the debate. He realized that Jesus had answered well, so he asked, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
Jesus replied, “The most important commandment is this: ‘Listen, O Israel! The Lord our God is the one and only Lord. And you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.’ The second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ No other commandment is greater than these.” (Mark 12:28-31 NLT)
Questions. So, how can we love the Lord with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength if we don’t take care of our own heart, soul, mind, and body? And is loving our neighbors contingent upon loving ourselves first? I think so.
What do you think? What age seems old to you? What are you doing to take better care of yourself these days?
Video/AARP
Such wise words, and advice that needs to be heeded even for the young.
I’ve struggle with getting old ever since I turned 30, and I know women of all ages who still struggle with turning gray, wrinkles, and the attitudes of the younger generation toward them. So, I just thought I’d write about it a little on my blog. Writing brings healing, you know! Thanks for your comment, Rachel!
Thank you for the encouragement! Well, 40 used to sound old, but now that I’m older than that, I most certainly do not want to think of it as old. I also struggle with taking time for myself, but I do in several ways, I suppose, with exercise and quiet time in the house and making sure I’m taking time to read books and such. And those things really should be thought of as a lifestyle, rather than “taking care of myself,” especially in our culture of busyness. Sometimes, I do see the need to shake it up and do something different, like try and get a massage or pedicure (I’ve only had a handful in my life) or something out of the ordinary.
I agree – taking care of ourselves should be thought of as a lifestyle. But life has so many demands, sometimes the last thing we take care of is our own needs. Thanks for your comment, Rhonda!