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        The Better Side of Sixty 
        
        For my 63rd birthday, two dear friends, Susan and Linda, both 
gave me a journal – each with its own lovely textured cover. Susan left a “post 
it” note on the cover saying “Keep Writing”; so Susan, I’ll try not to 
disappoint you. 
 
Life’s journey, whether married; divorced; widowed or single varies drastically 
both physically and mentally. As women, and I’m only talking about women here; 
our bodies age according to heredity, genetics, and believe it or not – our 
pocket books. 
 
We all aim to stay young, look youthful and try to keep up with the latest 
nautilus equipment, make-up formulas and fashion trends. However, we can try 
till the cows come home; when your legs don’t move as fast as they used to – 
accept the fact – pace yourself and listen to your body – but never stop trying. 
 
Why am I writing this short article you ask – and why would my article be 
interesting to others? Well, for one thing, writing is extremely therapeutic. 
When we view our words on paper, maybe our thoughts become more real – and maybe 
we take action when action is needed. 
 
In my previous life; prior to age 60, my body and mind reacted to unpleasant 
situations easier and more rapidly – even though my life certainly was not a 
stressless one. Now all those little stress molecules in my body attacked my 
being where I must push myself to enjoy my life to the same degree I am 
accustomed to enjoying. The simplest tasks become chores – not nice!! 
 
Women, aches and pains attack us all in our “Golden Years” – whether we are rich 
or poor, wrinkleless or without sagging boobs. It’s our mental attitude which 
can relieve some of these aches. Trust me ladies – I’ve been there and 
unfortunately am there now. Anxiety is our worst enemy – we must fight him with 
all our might. Notice I refer to anxiety as the “male species” – that is a whole 
other kettle of worms and book! 
 
There are different avenues to overcome and conquer our anxieties or fears – 
each individual has their preference. Talking to a professional, understanding 
friends or co-workers is the best medicine. 
 
Sometimes in our mature years we are fearful of being alone, afraid of our 
unbalanced body and of growing old. 
I don’t have magical answers; but I can tell you that you are not alone – we all 
encounter these fears in one respect or another. 
 
What I can tell you ladies is that your attitude plays a tremendous role in your 
life. 
 
Happiness is a voyage, not a destination - 
There is no better time to be happy than now 
 
Live and Enjoy the Moment!!   
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    Elayne Kotler, a member of Canadian Writer's Society, lives in Toronto.  A mother, grandmother and author, besides working as a full-time administrative assistant position with Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, is a very busy lady.  Her book, Just How Many Roses Do I Have to Smell, will be out very shortly.  It is a very entertaining book about her male relationships over the years and how she handled them.    |