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We're now the seniors, the ignored and the irrelevant in American society. Our experiences, however vast and however edifying, aren't afforded much value. During the pandemic, we're the generation most expendable. The Corona virus is downplayed as "only killing the elderly." which means younger folk needn't take precautions--either for themselves or for the protection of their elderly friends and family. My own state's Lieutenant Governor even suggested that older folks should be eager to sacrifice themselves for the benefit of the economy we leave our children and grandchildren. Just die already! Presumably so everyone else can just resume the capitalistic, consumeristic lives they lived before. Oh my. In spite of reasons for bitterness, I'm really just grateful to be in the position I'm in. Now retired, I don't have to worry about losing a job. I don't have to worry about child care or panic about the upcoming school year (though I'm concerned for my grandchildren, I don't have control over those decisions). I'm in good health, thank God, and am actually not all that anxious about contracting the virus. Reading and writing have always been my favorite pastimes, and it's glorious to have more time for both now. I'm also less concerned about the appearances that used to consume so much of my energy. I recently decided to let my hair go gray and grow as long as it wants to. I may work up the nerve to let Tim trim the ends at some point, but there's no need for desperate measures yet. I'd already given up makeup (although I admit to still powdering my nose for the occasional Zoom meeting). I can even wear ratty shorts to Zoom church if I choose to! While I may sometimes chafe at being part of the discounted generation, there is freedom in not attracting attention, and I'm learning to embrace that. It's part of the process of letting go. Letting go of intense responsibilities, and letting go of the need to plan seriously beyond the next year or two. I'll continue efforts to make the world a better place where I can, but I'm letting go of the pressure to usher in Utopia all on my own and in my lifetime. I still have one vote, and I'll use it to express my values; I'll try to approach each day and each person with kindness and mercy. I'll never be too old for that. --Janice
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January 2022
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