Getting old is taking possession of the now, because we are always newcomers in life
He moved into the building a little over a year ago. Accompanied by a carer, the tall, robust man occupies an apartment on the ground floor and spends a good part of the day sitting on a bench between the two blocks, observing the movement of the residents. A sad face and a certain aggressiveness in his gaze denote senile traits and a moving loneliness. If his head isn’t one hundred percent, his strong body is far from giving up.
The old man who needs care is also the big man full of will, whose strength is very difficult to stop. In the good morning I tell him when I leave the house there is a dose of affection and another of prevention. His presence brings me ambiguous feelings, reminds me of the time and threats of him, god forbid mixes with empathy when I see his sad eyes of him.
Overcoming the monotony is part of the process.
But life doesn’t like monotony. A few months ago, a lady moved here. She of French origin, she came to live daughter’s company, son-in-law and nephew. I brought in my luggage a broad smile and a self-confessed zest for life. He walks, goes to the gym, goes to the square and makes friends.
In lazy mornings and afternoons, he began to take up a seat on the long bench where he perched daily, the French glee risking a dialogue with the Brazilian abandon that dominates him. The concierge landscape has changed. Now we see a couple sharing the audience in front of the square. I replaced the good morning with Good morning. I get a frank smile (excuse the pun) in return, your hands resting on his leg. I leave stocked.
Aging is living in the present
My French neighbor has the eyes of a child. Curious, I smile at what arrives. I don’t know if she thinks about the weather, she’s too busy living every premiere. She invited life to dance and life she accepted. Age it must not be synonymous with tiredness and absence – from ourselves, from the times we live in. It could be life, eyes open for the moment that doesn’t come back. Getting old is taking possession of the now, that time which is worth the more becomes scarce.
No, don’t get distracted by my gray hair, I’m not an elder, I’m the usual kid. I do not know death, because I have never died. I’ve never aged before either, it’s my first time. I am both afraid and hopeful. I am a beginner, an amateur, the best category. I love what I’ve been through and what’s to come, a list of firsts. What will be next?
Text originally published in Vida Simples Magazine (Edition 249)
By Cris Paz
Mother, digital producer, podcaster and speaker. She published her first children’s book “The Boy Who Swallowed Choro”.
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Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
