GROWING OLD – PSYCHIC STATE
There is only one solution if old age is not to be an absurd parody of our former life, and that is to go on pursuing ends that give our existence a meaning – devotion to individuals, to groups or to causes, social, political, intellectual or creative work. In spite of the moralists’ opinion to the contrary, in old age we should wish to have passions strong enough to prevent us turning in upon ourselves. One’s life has value so long as one attributes value to the life of others, by means of love, friendship, indignation, compassion. When this is so, then there are still valid reasons for activity or speech.
Some do, but unfortunately many do not. Once you cease to be curious about what the future holds – however short or long that future may be – you cease to enjoy living. You become listless, apathetic, and often depressed. You become the stereotype of an old person and prove society right. You also become liable to be treated with drugs, which may make you more listless and more apathetic. While it is true that if you have always chosen a mediocre life it will be hard for you to be different in old age, you can escape if you really try. You do not need to withdraw into the twilight life of ageing. You can accept that you are growing old, and know that there is still much excitement to look forward to. You can strengthen your resolve if you remember that you are still the person you have always been, but that now you are living in an ageing body, which may force you to do things more slowly, but you can do them just as well.
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