The Secret to Agelessness

I am about to be eighty-nine this month, but all who look at me proclaim that I am in my sixties. That is such a great feeling. I enjoy, upon meeting new acquaintances, asking how old they think I appear. It is a fun game for me now. I don't gloat over their remarks or have a feeling of pride, etc., because I am very grateful to the Lord for such a blessing. Actually, I feel like forty in my heart.

People often ask me the secret of my "youthful" appearance. So now I've decided to share my "secret" with my dear readers. First of all, I learned my pretty mother's secret. She always applied Oil of Olay to her face (and hands, I guess) every day for many years—and it did the trick. She wasn't really wrinkled at ninety. I followed her lead, but used a good face (and hand) cream both night and morning—I still do and always will. But that's only part of the magic formula.

Being happy, at peace with all around you, having no enemies, loving everyone you know or meet—that is necessary. Even when unpleasant things happen, I am still basically happy. I love this world and "never want to leave!" It is such a beautiful world—and here for our enjoyment and wonder! To look at a verdant forest of trees upon "my" mountain is to truly worship our Maker, far more adequately than by attending any religious service. He put it there for our delight. Think about that. It will give you joy.

Having a feeling of kinship with whomever you meet is an ingredient here, too. We are all alike—God's family—a part of Him. What a blessed thought! It will help you through every trying situation. As my dear friends, the Native Americans, say: "Great Spirit, grant that I may not criticize my neighbor until I have walked a mile in his moccasins." Isn't that a worthwhile policy to adopt? And a beloved author said that we should tell everyone that our way is not a better way, but just a different way.

All the above are tools for keeping a youthful attitude and, hopefully, appearance.

Lastly—and very important, to me at least—is the need and urge to hug each one of my acquaintances. To hug is to send into another's heart the love one wishes to share; and in so doing, you will receive the love that flows into your heart. Do try it. It is life-giving and that is what keeps me young. Try it!