{Spring Pinwheel Garden}
The ideas behind my post last Friday not only captured my imagination but the imagination of many of the readers of Footsteps. The statement that good ideas were the sole domain of people under 30 was met with some reasoned and thoughtful responses by both those under 30 and over 30. The general feeling is that there are people with good and/or great ideas in all age groups and that a multigenerational approach to problem solving or a creative endeavor only makes the potential solutions better. But several reader also wrote to say they have felt the sting of "ageism" at one time or another. Jayvon wrote in response to the blog that "the older you are the less marketable your ideas will seem." Whether it is through popular media such as TV and advertising or by individuals who through their comments about age are creating an exclusionary nature to some ideas because they associate them with "youth".
But the question I am mulling over today is this: Are people happier as they age? I know it is dangerous to make blanket statements that include whole groups of people but the creative and imaginative people I personally know are happier today then they were 10 years ago. I have one friend who has become an oyster farmer after spending 25 years in a job that kept him indoors. He is passionate about this pursuit, he has a great tan and is in good physical shape. Another reader, Kathy stated, "the older I've gotten the more I have the freedom to be myself and fellow my passion." My oyster farming friend and Kathy seem to be living similar experiences.
On the whole, I am happier. As Anne replied, "Today I feel thankful. The days of envy are gone. What is left is the realization that we are unique." I, like Anne, embrace this and am grateful that I live in such a wondrous time. My question to you. Are you happier today? If so, why? As always I look forward to hearing from you.
Hugs,
C