Issue link: https://imageup.uberflip.com/i/1482994
In many parts of our country, November marks the end of fall and the beginning of colder weather. Here in Four Seasons, we probably don't miss the snow, but we welcome temperatures less than triple digits. Enjoy Thanksgiving, and if you are eating turkey, remember that Benjamin Franklin thought the turkey would be a better national symbol than the bald eagle… interesting. As we transition from fall to winter, it is a reminder that we are in our autumn years. This does not mean that we have to focus on what we are losing, but to see how much we gain as we age. Geriatric psychiatrist, Marc Agronin, MD, says that aging isn't about eroding, it's about evolving. He believes: "… older brains have enormous potential because of the aging and learning process. Seniors make better decisions… are more at peace with themselves… and have more informed perspectives on life. Aging can be a jumping-off point for a renewed sense of purpose and growth if you are willing to explore some new directions…" Try a more creative approach. Problem-solving comes from being able to think divergently, along different pathways. As our brain matures, we get better at doing this, and our solutions become more creative. In real terms, this means that if you find yourself facing a challenge, such as being unable to stand for long periods of time or unable to hold your hand steady, you usually can find a work-around, maybe one that is even better than the original way you had of doing things. Find ways to reinvent yourself. Volunteer opportunities are everywhere. They are a good way for you to dip a toe into something to see if you might want to spend more time doing it. Think of yourself as liberated. We tend to think that liberation and experimentation are the domain of the young, but that's not true. With age comes fewer inhibitions. It's time to shake up the stereotypes we have about aging and realize that we can take a leadership role in terms of doing things differently. Take stock of all your personal assets. Think of your life as you would a financial portfolio. What are your assets? They are different for everyone. Talking to people about your list of unique skills and assets will help to re-define how you see yourself and how you can define your future. This is called "re-aging," because then you can start pursuing some of these new activities. Be open to new directions. Just because you have always been an accountant doesn't mean that you now can't pursue your passion for gardening. It's not too late. Make a list of the things you want to do now. This is not a traditional bucket list of travel destinations. It's about how you want to live the coming years… and the legacy you want to leave behind. "Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter…" Satchel Paige Message from the Board of Directors 2 | Four Seasons Hemet Herald | NOVEMBER 2022 | Sincerely, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Barbra Balser, Cliff Post, Tony Criscenti, Roxy Snider, Fred Kydd, and Mary Reyna Jim Crase President