Act Your Age?

     Last evening while having dinner at a local restaurant, an elderly man walked by our table wearing a red t-shirt.  On the shirt was written, "I can't act my age because I have never been this age before."  I really liked this statement because it expressed what I think about getting older.

     We frequently hear people say that we should act our age.  Who decides what is a proper way to act at a certain age?  And what criteria are they using?  All too often, people suppress their feelings, actions, activities, etc. because they fear that what they want to do is not proper for their age.  That's sad because it stifles people from enjoying themselves and acting in a way that makes them happy.

     It is said that your age is just a number, and it really is.  What matters is the attitude you have, no matter what your age may be.  I want to continue to learn new things, enjoy new things and stay as young mentally as I can.  I do not want to be put in a box that someone else thinks I should be in because I have reached a certain age.  I do not want my age to dictate my life.

     So, consider your age to just be a number.  In fact, don't dwell on how old you are.  Rather, focus on the things you enjoy doing and do not worry if your activities are commensurate with your age.  We all grow old, if we are fortunate.  Growing old only comes with restrictions if we allow it.  Today, kick up your heels and act your mental age, not your physical age.  After all, we have not had practice acting our physical age so why should we try to be good at it.  Try being young at heart and mind and make this a great day!