Too Soon Old, Too Late Smart

Aging and Physical Challenges

abilities. Choose one that you feel is of interest. (Hand

ball would not be a challenge to me). Determine to

maintain a selected exercise.

Mr. and Mrs. Dean Carlton, Portland, Oregon

Having a severe curvature of the spine, I have had

to limit some of my activities. There were things as a

child my friends could do, and I could not. This would

have been harder, had it not been for my dad. He

made me realize that I was special, and there were

other things I could do well. My mother made me

clothes that would look like the styles, but would cover

my curvature. Believing in oneself and the help of loved

ones helps greatly.

I work with children, so I believe that this keeps one

young and energetic. I have had some grey hair since

I was 25. This grey hair makes younger kids believe I'm

older than I am, but adults say because of my energy I

don't act my age. I also believe age is all in the mind.

My mother is 83 and very active. She goes to the "old

folks" home to visit the old folks. Someone said the

good thing about growing old and forgetting is you can

hide your own Easter eggs.

Sarah Nell Pomerenk, Memphis, Tennessee

It hurts when you finally realize that you won't play

centerfield for the Yankee's. It really caught up with me

when I found out I was past the age limit of FIFA

refunds. I have called Soccer games since my oldest

was eight years old; now I'm too old to call the World

Cup (not that I ever would). But if you take care of

yourself you won't feel as old. And remember each