So interesting! I read your article just now, having just completed my reflection on my personal 2024. And what you say makes people happy and unhappy was exactly what I'd covered, for me. Also so useful to focus on what to aim for in 2025. It's all about quality of life and health!
My second cousin died last year. She was 109, an astonishing age. Many of the family reached their mid nineties without cognitive impairment but she beat them all.
When she was 105 she was still taking the bus into Dublin, alone. She had not yet begun using a cane and told me she had to be careful not to go around corners too quickly or she'd lose balance. Her hearing was very bad but otherwise she was whole, healthy and full of life.
I think that was her secret. She loved life, kept busy, went to everything the home she lived in had on offer. She walked every day, got up every morning for breakfast even if she was the only one there. She had no time for self pity and was always looking forward. She had a deep faith that I believe sustained her, but she never pushed it on anyone else.
It would be fascinating to know her medical markers but I don't have that information. I suppose there must be some genetic component?
I feel privileged to have known such an inspirational woman. When I'm tempted to feel sorry for myself I think of Máirín, and stop. 😍
So interesting! I read your article just now, having just completed my reflection on my personal 2024. And what you say makes people happy and unhappy was exactly what I'd covered, for me. Also so useful to focus on what to aim for in 2025. It's all about quality of life and health!
I love Annie Dillard - an apt quote and theme. I appreciate writing that brings together science and philosophy - Thanks for this!
My second cousin died last year. She was 109, an astonishing age. Many of the family reached their mid nineties without cognitive impairment but she beat them all.
When she was 105 she was still taking the bus into Dublin, alone. She had not yet begun using a cane and told me she had to be careful not to go around corners too quickly or she'd lose balance. Her hearing was very bad but otherwise she was whole, healthy and full of life.
I think that was her secret. She loved life, kept busy, went to everything the home she lived in had on offer. She walked every day, got up every morning for breakfast even if she was the only one there. She had no time for self pity and was always looking forward. She had a deep faith that I believe sustained her, but she never pushed it on anyone else.
It would be fascinating to know her medical markers but I don't have that information. I suppose there must be some genetic component?
I feel privileged to have known such an inspirational woman. When I'm tempted to feel sorry for myself I think of Máirín, and stop. 😍
She sounds like an amazing lady. Always useful to have someone like that in your genetic tree.