A (not so) Secret to Aging Well: Active Mind and Body

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Yesterday, I met my friend, Braden, for brunch.  We had not seen each other since 2004; but, like all truly solid friendships, we picked up the conversation as if we had just seen each other.  I have known Braden since he was a freshman, and I was a sophomore at Oberlin College in 1973.  Thirty –six years ago?? Is that possible?

I am struck by how little he has aged.  He is the bright, creative, fun, talented, energetic and unique fellow he always was.  In addition, he has integrated a layer of wisdom into his personality (the big prize in aging well).  Braden is conducting and playing in the orchestra for the national tour of a Tony winning Broadway musical.  He works out at gyms in whatever city he is in and has superb upper body fitness due to the workout he gets as a conductor.  He is writing two novels and read the entire Count of Monte Cristo in French last year.  He is also in a long-term-committed relationship.  Wahoo!

I am hoarse from talking so much.  We both howled with laughter and basked in our friendship. We are both happy in a way we never were years ago. I know many people my age and Braden’s age who are already old.  They have lost the inner life force that must stay alive.  How are you keeping it alive?

Braden is living his life well. It helps to have good, optimistic genes, but it is also possible to think your way into a happier place for living the rest of your life. Love and be loved, work, laugh, stretch your brain, exercise your body, and always, always stay curious.  Having Braden as a friend keeps me young (along with exercising, being curious, loving, laughing, doing work that matters, and always finding new things to learn and explore).  Get off the sofa and stretch forward into your long and happy life.