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Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist's avatar
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Carol Ors…
Michael Jackson's death at the age of 50 and our society's obsession with youth
posted 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

Now that I'm safely way on the other side of 50, I can laugh about how horrified I was at the notion of getting my invitation to join AARP.  Our generation watched the wunderkind Michael Jackson grow up--or at least get older--a Peter Pan living out our society's obsession with youth in his literal Neverland.  So anyway, I find myself thinking about what a relief it is to be on the other side of the terror of aging and how much I would like to share with others approaching the fiery gate of 50 to help them through to not only acceptance but the enthusiasm, gratitude and wonder that are possible in our 50's, 60's and beyond.  What advice would you give?

responses (7)

Sherrie Mathieson's avatar Sherrie M…
Sherrie Mathieson said to Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

I really believe in my aunt Ruth's phylosophy (I dedicated "Forever Cool" to her before she died at 1 month shy of 101)--It's not what you go through--it's how you go through it. Aging is inevitable (the alternative is not a good one). Why not try to be the best you can be--and feel the best you can--as you live your years? Michael Jackson's life served as "entertainment" unfortunately--as much as his real talent did.It was always evident that so much was amiss. Our society, geared and propelled by sensationalism, fears and mostly materialism--is complicit with all this by buying magazines, and watching programs that use celebs and don't indulge in soul-searching (except the lip-service that ensues after deaths like Elvis or Michael's). We need to ask ourselves if so long as it "sells"--is it necessarily right,or good? (Sherrie(www.sherriemathieson.com)

Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist's avatar Carol Ors…
Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist said to Sherrie Mathieson 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

Couldn't agree more--with both Aunt Ruth's philosophy and the sad exploitation of Jackson.  In terms of dealing with the challenges of aging, I believe our generation of women may be better prepared for aging gracefully than did our mom's for the most part, because so many of us have worked hard on psycho-spiritual health/practices for many years.  We've had access to the wisdom of so many eras and regions via technology, education, etc. that our mothers did not have.  Plus, counseling was considered "shameful" for that generation--a sign of failure.  Anyway, it's yet to be seen, since 50 or 60 is not 80 or 90. 

dr's avatar dr
dr said to Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

you know what im 58 and would not want to go back think about all of the life experiences you would have to relive no thank you im just fine where i am and a whole lot happier

Josephine Burrell's avatar Josephine…
Josephine Burrell said to dr 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

Dr

I am 66 and I agree with you. I am happier than at any other point in my life. All of you ladies made some excellent points.

nangano's avatar nangano
nangano said to Carol Orsborn - VN Strategist 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

I don't mind their obsession with youth, I just wish there was a respect for those who have lived through it all. Other countries have a reverence for their elders, here they do not in so many ways.

nangano's avatar nangano
nangano said to nangano 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

i will not let them disrespect me i show them that just because your older does not mean you dont have wisdom and laughter in my life i think as we age the things we pass over as youth without a thought when you age you realize the importance of kindness and compassion for other peoples problems there are a lot of problems and emotional ups and downs with youth

Josephine Burrell's avatar Josephine…
Josephine Burrell said to nangano 06/26/2009, 03:34PM new!

Dear Nangano,

I agree with you 100%. Well stated.

Pure and Natural