The FastDay Forum

http://www.theguardian.com/books/2013/o ... ly-old-age

Must be read by every living breathing human bean.
Too good :0)

Thanks for this, Azure. I'm only 70-something, but so much of what she says is true for me, too.

I'll be re-reading this, I know.

Brilliant article! I'm 65 but don't consider myself 'old', just 'older'! Reminded me of one of my favourite poems by Jenny Joseph,'Warning' here's a link for anyone not familiar with it.
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/warning/

Oh yes. I try to live up to this daily. Currently wearing red and all bright colours and not crawl around in dusty black.
Viva la vida loca!

Thanks for that, Callyanna - I love that Jenny Joseph poem. I'm taking to heart (at 55) her suggestion:

"But maybe I ought to practice a little now?
So people who know me are not too shocked and surprised
When suddenly I am old, and start to wear purple"

Great read and very thought provoking - old age is the new great unmentionable that we don't really want to think about until it's grabbed us by the throat. I really hope that this wol does make it better by enabling me to hold onto my independence for longer, and to stay compos mentis, although some who know me well would argue that I lost the plot a long time ago!!
After 7 months doing this I can honestly say I don't LOOK a day younger but I FEEL years younger!!

Yes i resonate with most of what she says! Thanks for sharing.
Love her books too x

Thank you Azureblue for the link. At 56 I hope I have long way to go but the article was very thought provoking. I loved her thoughts about gardening.

Very nice written piece and touching. Thank you.