No Denying

Finally, in my life, being at the "invisible age", I refuse to deny things that don't make sense to me. Dieting doesn't make sense. Living in tight garments doesn't make sense. Not doing things that I really don't enjoy, makes sense. Eating with no lists of what not to and what to eat, makes sense. I see the end of my life path  in range, and since I don't want to waste any time, I have dispensed with the stressful denials that are popular today: saving the world, gym dates, tread mills, protests, meetings, boring dinners, make-overs, minimalism, stretch underwear, and so on. These are all about "perfection". Who is perfect? Some people have the kinds of minds and bodies to be very close to perfect, but I am, like most of you, not one of them. It's time to pass the baton to the next generation and be a little selfish with the time we have left. It doesn't mean opting out of responsible society, it simply means finding your own level, and feeling no guilt about staying there. First, I am at an age where all the social rules other than being polite, are going to work when they work for me. No longer do I put up with a bore. While I am not rude, I just walk away. Without guilt. I believe in respecting others and caring about them but the rest, well... When I go to a restaurant, I don't worry about counting calories or working out carbs. I order what appeals to me and usually it is in the high-count appetizer section, and then I might even order two of what looks delicious. The allergy fad regarding flour and butter and sugar and scent, I have never tolerated. Those who want to stress out about it, are more than welcome. It gives them something to talk about.  I am well aware of what sensitivities I must avoid and, therefore, don't need to bore everyone else with them. If I like someone, I tell them so. If I meet people on the street, I don't hesitate to speak to them. If I don't want to attend some event, I don't. No excuses, no "little white lies". I just say "no thanks" and move on. If I want to get up at two in the morning to read, I do so. The clock doesn't dominate my existence. I have a life of freedoms that I've earned. If you have to take a ton of pills to get through the day, don't tell me about them, just do it and don't feel guilty. It's no fun listening to people who say "I really shouldn't, but...". I am always tempted to answer "then don't" or "who cares".  If you like a second glass of wine, the world is not going to stop turning even when your disapproving friend scowls at you. Enjoy! We are too old and wise and knowing, to be ranting at and worrying about the way the world is going. We won't be around to see it happen. Frank Sinatra sang it well: "I did it my way". Worked for him.