By David Tepera, July 27, 2022
As most of you know, even though we train people of all ages, our gym caters mostly to the older generation. A large portion of our weight lifting clients are in their 70s, with some in their 80s. I thoroughly enjoy our many conversations.
You see, I’m 61 years old, and my great grandmother, who I knew very well, was born in 1898. To me, I think it sounds very old that I knew relatives from the 1800s.
A little side note, in 1898, William McKinley was the 25th President of the United States until he was assassinated Sept. 14, 1901 after leading the nation to victory in the Spanish-American War. His presidency raised protective tariffs to promote American industry.
Now, back to training our older population. I get to hear all the lost words of my elder relatives. Let me throw some out at you to see if it brings back memories, but I’m hopeful some of you are still using.
We all know the lazy guy who’s just “hem hawing” around. I promise, the “proof is in the pudding.” We had fun at the beer joint because we “cut the rug” all night.
How many of you wake you in the middle of the night because of a “Charlie horse?” Some of our male clients are old, so I guess that makes them an “old geezer.”
Why in the “tarnation” are you making all that “racket?” Can’t you do that “over yonder?”
We all know you’re full of “bologna,” so quit making a “fuss” about it.
Anyway, I’m sure most of you have your own list of “lost words.” I truly miss all my older relatives, especially those on my Czech side because the language will be lost after my sister and I.
My mission for all you older folks. You must somehow find a way to reach our younger generation. I feel they are getting lost when it comes to good values, respect and hard work ethic.
Believe me, there’s one thing you can do to get the attention of your grandchildren or younger relatives, and that is through exercise.
As I mentioned, the clients in their 70s can all flash a set of guns. These clients have funny stories of them competing with their grandchildren over the biggest biceps.
There is still a way to connect with our next generation. It’s our duty as older people to put our children on the right path.
This will all start by realizing you are the beautiful generation.