I stared at myself in the mirror this morning.  There were a few more wrinkles, and some disturbing age spots starting to develop on my forehead.  I’ve somehow been able to avoid bags under my eyes, but signs of turkey neck and deeper creases at corners of my mouth are starting to give away my age.  I’ve always looked five to ten years younger than my contemporaries, but I don’t find too many surprised reactions any more when I tell people how old I am.  I was carded into my thirties, and fortunate to still have a full head of hair that is not entirely gray.  I’ve not had any surgery, but my wife supplies me with some anti-aging creams that may or may not work.  I’m still admittedly vain and do not want to grow any older.

I know I should avoid the mirror because realistically if you don’t look at yourself, you don’t feel any older.  Cataracts and failing vision are probably a blessing as we age.  Loose skin, belly fat, and flabby muscles are noticeable, but not as disturbing as looking in the mirror.  I realize that men supposedly age gracefully, but any way you look at it you’re still no longer a spring chicken.  It’s funny how the bird references apply in retirement, like turkey neck, crow’s feet, bald as an eagle, spending your nest egg, and going south for the winter.  I hope I’m not ruffling any feathers!  We flew away from the nest many years ago, have fought off the vultures, and hope to earn our wings.  I’m just glad we don’t have to eat worms!

Mirror…Mirror on the wall…(See Post #115).  The mirror can be our enemy, and there are obviously many retirees who don’t use one.  Einstein eyebrows, nose and ear hair, eye buggers, bad clothing combinations, and out-of-date fashions are several good reasons to look in the mirror.  I sometimes feel like a young child trapped in an old body and tired of making adult decisions.  Then again,  I don’t necessarily want to be young again, and would not trade the comforts of retirement for the quest of achievement.  I’m content with being a young retiree, but worried about being an old one.  I like having my mobility, total freedom, a loving family, and good health.  It would not be a pleasant experience losing any of these core elements of happiness.

There are many years of retirement ahead of me, and many mirrors to remind me of my age.  When I do stop to look at myself, I want to see someone who is healthy, happy, and helpful.  I don’t need to be wealthy, and would rather continue to see the value in others, show respect, and never judge.  I want to see the world, watch my grandchildren grow up to be successful, be a good neighbor, and a loyal friend.  My life should be a reflection of how I treat others.  Hopefully, the pearly gates will be a mirror, and in the end I can look at myself and smile.