By David Tepera, August 19, 2025

I’m so glad that I grew up in the 1960’s and 70’s. it was the era of where all the kids would meet out in the streets to ride bikes, play hopscotch, kickball, basketball in the driveway, or just hanging out.

None of us wanted to be at home because that meant chores. Back in the day, there wasn’t internet or video games. We used our imaginations and creativity to entertain ourselves. My iPad was an etch-a-sketch. Only you oldies will appreciate that joke.

So, for us in the golden years, don’t you appreciate the values and hard work our parents instilled in us? I didn’t know any of my friend’s parents by their first names.

I was fortunate to be raised by a father who was a high school football coach. One of the biggest benefits was understanding the importance of competition. Dad told me, the lessons of playing sports will prepare you for the real world. And boy, I took full advantage of my youthful years.

Well, here we are. The body doesn’t want to run anymore, can’t jump without tweaking my back, and lifting heavy objects is over. But, that is all perfectly acceptable.

Now, I no longer mow the lawn, but I do enjoy creating beautiful flower gardens. Every Christmas, we hire a company to hang the lights on the house and in the trees, but I lay out all the yard decorations. Believe me, it’s a three-day project.

What I’m trying to relay, yes, we are slowing down, but we are not out. There is a benefit of getting older, especially those who’ve reached retirement. Hopefully, you’re traveling and going places you’ve dreamed of. 

Are you able to hike the trails or go on long walks observing the sites? Our golden age clients are fishing, golfing, playing pickle ball, gardening, and taking family vacations around the world.

All this means is no laying around letting Father-time take you out. Nope, today you’re going to control of your life and enjoy the golden years.

Do you really need a handicap sticker or license plate? Don’t get mad at me, but you know that answer. Is your reputation of someone who gave up or a fighter? Come on, which one do you want to be?

As we get older, of course, we lose our youth, but if you take care of yourself, old age is golden.