I knew I was going to like the book “Shedding Years” by Phyllis Greene as soon as I read the title page. You would be surprised at how many people give the impression that they are just waiting around for an early demise instead of making the most of the years they have left. Being sad, sick, tired, weak or bored does not have to be a part of the plan.
Phyllis Green became a first time author at 82 and it was all uphill for her after that. She was so stimulated by the acceptance and support of her literary efforts that she felt younger than she had in years. The key is the words stimulated and excited. These are the words she used to describe her feelings from the moment she started researching and writing her book. She now feels that her life is going in reverse, at least as far as the aging process, and her iMac is her fountain of youth.
There isn’t anything mysterious about the book but it exudes a quality of excitement about age and aging. The feeling is that each year is the best year, and her pearls of wisdom are priceless. Actually it is the kind of book that any of you could write, even if it is in the form of a journal or diary and not meant for eyes other than your own. It is one woman’s take on everyday things and it is wonderfully funny and insightful at the same time.
She writes about everyday things like mastering her cell phone. I found this hugely entertaining because I too have struggled in the same way, and I nodded in agreement as she discussed her tale of woe. I laughed because identifying the ring tone, finding the phone and unlocking the face panel before the calls goes to voice mail is really quite a challenge.
She remembers the past, accepts the future and revels in the present. Her advice to anyone wanting to feel and stay young is to accept change, go with the flow and be cool. Opening yourself up to new experiences is easy if you are willing to change. She firmly believes in lightening up and being willing to try anything once. Do not refuse an invitation to lunch or dinner or a night away from home, even if it is past your bedtime or you don’t sleep well in a strange bed. Go out. Go along with your group; it will open up your world.
Her book shares and explores the challenges of the senior years with joyful insights into everyday living. She declares that it is possible to shed your years by immersing yourself in the glories of the world around you. She admits that she still looks the same and is sometimes a bit unsteady on her feet, but the exhilaration of sharing her stories with others has made her feel young and vital again. Tell your story and if you do want to get your story out there AARP magazine this month (March/April 2011) has an excerpt on self publishing by means of a vanity or e-book publisher. You will never know if you don’t write that first word.
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