GROWING OLD IS CERTAINLY NOT A COUNTDOWN

In other words, as one ages, one’s mind becomes more competent as a result of the production of brain cells coupled with years of wisdom and experience. Ageing is not the beginning of a countdown, but is rather, the time for a count-up. The world can benefit greatly from the planning skills and wisdom of the aged. This is, in fact, nature’s way of enabling man to pass on his wisdom to succeeding generations. Longevity and old age are often spoken of in the same breath. But here the emphasis is misplaced. The key aspect of old age is maturity, not longevity. An old person develops mature thinking by experiencing the vicissitudes of life. This not only enhances his knowledge but makes him a prolific source of guidance and advice. Succeeding generations are always in need of this unique gift from nature so that they may plan a way forward. All major developments have taken place in the world by people ‘standing on the shoulders of their predecessors’. It is time to actively acknowledge the contribution that senior citizens can make to society at large and to bring them into the mainstream so that they may uphold the veracity of the old adage—‘old is gold.’ o In old age, a man’s experience, knowledge and maturity increase, offering him multifaceted ways to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life.