Flora, my beautiful 92-year-old friend, spoke this truth during our recent visit. Her husband of 36 years just passed away a few weeks before our visit, after a couple months of illness. Reaching up to put some newly laundered sheets on a closet shelf, he had a heart attack and took his last breath. Flora said her and her assisted living friends say, “You have to be tough to get old.”
It seems to me there is a lot of truth to their statement. More illness, aches and pains, surgeries, death of loved ones, and just plain heartache, seem to be on the docket more than we’d like.
So how do we get “tough” and live a life of hope and anticipation? The only insight Flora and I have is to keep your focus on God. He will help if we keep communication (prayer) open. He will “carry you,” “sustain you,” and “rescue you” if you ask him.
Here are some simple ideas to help you “be tough:”
- Add prayer and reading the Bible to your daily routine
- Share regular deep conversations with a trusting friend
- Be in nature as much as possible
- Listen to uplifting music of your choice loudly and sing along
- Have a monthly massage
- Stretch daily
- Stay as active as possible, even if it hurts sometimes
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
How do you stay tough?