UP FRONT: Priceless are the lessons you’ve learned

A former classmate writes that turning 70 early this year has hit her hard and she realizes she’s in the final epoch of her life. She’s planning a reunion for those of us who graduated from high school in 1972 and are turning 70 this year.

I have to admit, I don’t give much thought to turning 70. At that age I will have outlived both of my parents and all but one of my grandparents so, when you think about it that way, I guess I am sliding into home base.

But it doesn’t feel that way. I still feel about the same as I did at 30 or 40, or maybe 18. Except for when I tripped in the alley while walking my dog a couple of years ago and wrenched my neck and back. I suffered in pain for months and finally had to go to physical therapy, just like an old person.

Fortunately, physical therapists can help you get back to your younger-feeling self and give you tips on how to stay that way. Sorta.

I almost wish my classmate hadn’t mentioned the 70 thing because now I am thinking about it more and it can be a little unsettling. I remember when my grandparents were in their 60s and I thought: “Wow, they’re OLD!” Of course, years ago, 60 was old but now you see people in their 90s who just make you think they have been drinking out of the fountain of youth. Getting remarried and going on trips and doing all the crazy things they did as young adults. Eighty is the new 60; 90 is the refurbished 40s only with a few more wrinkles.

On the other hand, I don’t really want to go back to those younger days. I made a lifetime of mistakes before I even turned 50 and I haven’t forgotten most of those hard-learned lessons.

In fact, that’s what makes getting older much better. Our bodies may tell us our age but what we have learned through the years is worth gold.

Things like, don’t worry. Life goes up and down, it never stays the same, so just keep your cool and whatever may be terrible in the moment will look much brighter tomorrow.

Also, don’t hold grudges. At the time you may feel justified but you can almost always look back and see that the person who hurt you was hurting him/herself, maybe more than you. Grudges are just a big heavy bag of muck that’s not worth carrying around the rest of your life. Get over it.

Stop worrying about your weight. Whatever you are is what you are so just be happy with that. You’ve only got one body; treat it well.

And finally, be kind. No exceptions.

Hedberg may be contacted at khedberg@lmtribune.com.