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On turning 75
By Carol / November 28, 2023 /
I turned 75 this year, an age I’ve looked forward to. It’s a cool number, don’t you think? Since I’ve arrived here with good health, good family and friends, and an active mind, I consider myself so fortunate.
Yet when I actually turned 75, I found myself ambivalent. During the past year, I had a hip replaced. Though I was back to standing without pain and walking as I’m accustomed to, it took longer to regain my energy. The inevitable discussions surrounding doctors and health led to thoughts of mortality, which I’ve never shied from, but which now I take more personally.
Poetry gave me an outlet for describing this ambivalence. In writing this, I gained perspective on this remarkable age and how I think about it. During the writing, my energy also returned. A coincidence? Perhaps. But the writing may have influenced my thinking by focusing on the balance of this age.
I lived in a century-old farm house until I was four.
At 75 – A Sonnet
At 75, my body gives way,
sagging like a century-old farmhouse.
Knees and stairs creak, a weary dirge they play,
a tune to cause groans and tempt me to grouse.
Off-kilter windows like memories stick;
I pray they break loose, and I can recall.
Joints have worn out, and I’m no longer quick.
Activity grinds to a halt. What gall!
Yet my mind is sharp, experience vast,
curiosity and will abundant.
Upkeep and attention ensure I’ll last;
My body shifts but remains resplendent.
In body and mind, I have much to give.
I’m grateful for life I have yet to live.
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I’m curious how you think about aging. Have you been surprised at how reaching a particular landmark age affected you? How have you managed the change?
Love the poem! I passed 75 eight years ago. Still plugging along but not as vigorous as at 75! Wising you many more great years!
Thank you, Carol. I have a good friend who’s your age and she says reduced energy is one of the things she noted moving from 70s to 80s. Writing is one of the things we can enjoy indefinitely. And you are. Your Mountain Woman series is still one of my favorites.
I will turn 65 next month. I love this stage of life—it’s my favourite so far. 🙂
There’s a lot to love about these years, isn’t there? I’m enjoying the freedom of time to try many new things, including watercolor and pastel arts.
I loved this poem so much I placed it on my own blog about turning 75.
You are a great example to me of “jubilación”–joy in the later years of life. I love how you keep finding new, creative avenues. And I am a little envious of your level of excellence in all of them!
I’m honored to have my poem included on your blog, Shirley! It’s true I always do find something new to try out. This is one of the joys of this stage of life: time to experiment.