When asked, our dependable Alexa answered that it would begin raining in about 30 minutes. Time enough to lace up my running shoes and hit the pavement. I noticed two teenage girls run out from the trail ahead of me on the road. I said hello to the young ladies as I passed them. One of them asked me how far I was running. I stated 3 miles and asked them the same. They were running a longer run, 5-6 miles today. I said, “Good for you!” and the one who’d answered said, “No, good for you!” with an accent on you, like she was proud of this older lady for actually trying to run 3 miles.

At first, I felt a bit insulted. Did I not look like I could run 3 miles? Then I realized where we were – in a 55 and over community. These girls were probably from the high school across the street. She was right. There weren’t a lot of people in our neighborhood who ran 3 miles, although there are a few of us. I was thankful I was still able to run. My attitude changed. I patted myself on the back and said to myself, “Yes! Good for you!”

I realized we all need to pat ourselves on the back more often. Is there something you’ve been doing for a long time, and are still able to do it? Good for you! Are you still out walking your dog, riding your bike, or working out? Good for you! Are you still able to go to work, clean the house, travel? Good for you!

Is there something you’ve tried recently for the first time? Good for you! A friend of ours recently tried his first Kick-boxing class and responded that it kicked his butt. He felt it the next day, but good for you!

Is there something you’ve been wanting to try – like taking a cooking class, a yoga class, an art class? Sign up for it. Don’t ever feel that because you’ve reached a certain age, you can stop trying new things, exerting yourself, trying to keep yourself in good shape. We don’t know how long we have, but we should try to make the days we have count for something and be in the best shape we can possibly be.

I met a couple, who recently bought a vineyard. Yep. A full working vineyard and winery and is converting it into a totally biodynamic project. They are learning about grapevines, biodynamics, and every creature and plant involved in making that a success and they are my age! Good for you!

I just bought some redwood seeds after we visited Muir Woods. My husband laughed and asked if I realized I’d never see them reach their full height. Yes, I realize I will not be on this earth one millennium from now, but they grow one foot a year and I would love to see those trees tower over me at 30-40 feet tall someday. I planted those seeds this week. Good for me!

As I finished my run, I realized that I don’t want to be on my deathbed someday wishing I had started that project, took that class, expanded my horizons, planted that tree, but didn’t because I thought I was too old. Come on, friends. We are younger than we think, and certainly younger than we’ll be tomorrow. Let’s step out and do it! I patted myself on the back when I finished my run and said, “Good for you.” I even beat the rain.

What new project, class, dream are you taking on? Just do it! Share it with me below! I’d love to hear all about it.

  David also said to Solomon his son, be strong and courageous, and do the work. Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord, my God, is with you. 1 Chronicles 28:20