Learning what matters isn’t something you do once. It’s something life keeps teaching you. Sarah and I went to a dance with her parents on Memorial Day. It was in Rosen, MN. This is where my mom and dad are from as well. There were about 100 people there, but the only other person I knew was Sarah’s uncle, who is 89, and dancing up a storm! Music. Conversation. But what stood out? Two people in their 80’s. Dancing. Still holding hands. After all these years. When I was younger, I would have noticed how they danced. Today, I noticed they were still holding hands. Even for Sarah and I, it has been a long time since we went to a dance. We were literally “winging it”. Another couple came up to us and asked where we were from, and said we really look like we “know what we are doing!”. What a shock! Whether two step, waltz, polka, we have the same steps, just different speed! We can improvise on the fly!
There were some awesome sunrise and sunsets this week! While I am out taking pictures, it gives me time to reflect…reflect on the “reflection” I am seeing. It allows me to slow down. Wait for the right light…righ moment…appreciate the moment! The sunrise only last a few minutes. Maybe that is why it matters.
Sarah and I have been getting out into the garage gym…the “Reiflex Center”. Sarah a few times a week until she retires, but I have been getting out everyday. It used to be about getting faster with running times. How much weight could we lift? Now it is about consistency, health, and especially, sharing it with Sarah. I see stories that show up when I am reading about news online, and there are reports of what people at certain ages should be able to do for exercise, especially when it comes to lifting weights, or body weight exercises. A report just came out from Mayo that for people 55+ a female would be considered elite if they can do 10 pushups, and a male 12 pushups. I am currently doing 45 a day, consecutive. I am working on getting better. Last year at the Senior games I did 60. Look out, here I come! Now, this type of competition is fun. We still work out together, and other than what we are doing for the Senior games, it is not about chasing records anymore. It is because we are investing in our years ahead. Use it or lose it! The previous version of me would have said: “how much can I achieve.” Some portion of that is still there. It is a means of challenging myself. But, the current version of me is asking: “What matters most?” And maybe the answer isn’t a promotion; a title; or a race time. Maybe it’s holding hands after 60 years; watching a sunrise; staying healthy enough to enjoy another summer; or, having someone to share it with!
Family. It is no different whether we are human and another animal. The geese have been out with their little ones, and are incredibly protective. I am guessing the female is leading, then the little ones, followed by Dad. Give them space. Just like we want. This week reminded me that learning doesn’t stop when school ends. it doesn’t stop when careers end. It doesn’t stop when we retire. Life keeps teaching. Sometimes through a sunrise. Sometimes through a workout. Sometimes two people in their 80’s quietly holding hands. Maybe that’s what this season of life is really about. Learning what matters! Keep moving everybody!
Dr. Dan
Consecutive Exercise Day of Newest Streak: # 823