"Vieillir est une chose fascinante. Plus on vieillit, plus on veut vieillir."

Aging is a surprisingly intriguing journey. As we grow older, our desire to continue aging only intensifies. Initially, this might sound counterintuitive—who wants to get old, right? But let’s unpack it a bit.

Think about it: when you're young, you often can't wait to "grow up"—to reach those milestones that adults seem to cherish. You crave the freedom and the wisdom that comes with age. However, as you actually start getting older, you realize that there's so much more to experience and learn. Each year adds layers to your understanding of life, making you curious about what comes next.

Imagine a 70-year-old woman named Grace. Grace has lived through several decades, each filled with its own set of challenges and joys. In her 20s, she was eager to build her career. By her 30s and 40s, she was balancing work with raising a family. Her 50s brought new professional achievements and personal growth. Now in her 70s, she finds herself reflecting on all the wisdom she's gained and the lessons learned. Despite the inevitable physical decline, Grace feels a profound sense of satisfaction. She's eager to see what the next chapter holds.

Here's a concrete example: Take the late artist Grandma Moses, who started her painting career in her late 70s. She didn't see age as a barrier but as an opportunity. Her later years were filled with creativity and productivity—she embraced aging and the new possibilities it brought her.

So how can you apply this idea? First, shift your mindset about aging. Instead of dreading it, look at it as a continuous journey with new adventures at every turn. Embrace lifelong learning. Pick up a new hobby, travel, or read extensively. Each new experience adds richness to your life.

Let me tell you a story. Picture a man named Tom who, at 65, decided to learn how to play the guitar. He'd always loved music but never had the time. Now, with retirement, he found himself with the perfect opportunity. Initially, Tom struggled—his fingers were stiff, and his progress was slow. But he persisted. Over time, he not only got better but also found a new circle of friends at his local community center. They played together, shared stories, and enjoyed each other's company. Tom’s life was enriched in ways he hadn't anticipated. He looked forward to each practice session, each new song, and each gathering.

By embracing the idea that getting older means continually seeking new experiences and knowledge, Tom found joy and purpose. You can do the same. Don’t think of aging as an end but as a series of new beginnings. Engage in activities that challenge you. Keep your social connections strong. Reflect on your life’s journey and take pride in how far you've come.

In essence, getting older can be a fascinating adventure if you let it. The key is to remain curious, open to new experiences, and appreciative of the wisdom that each year brings. Just like Grace, Grandma Moses, and Tom, you can find joy in the journey of aging. Life doesn’t stop surprising you; it just keeps getting more interesting.