Today, in her blog Time Goes By, my blogger friend Ronni Bennett posted about “Making Friends in Old Age” that prompted me to leave her a comment, which I share here.
Until recently, I always considered myself an extrovert — never had any trouble meeting new people and making friends. I joined groups and often even facilitated them. I had no problem walking into a room where I knew no one and striking up a conversation with a stranger. But I’ve changed; life changed me, I guess. Bad knees keep me from doing the dancing I always loved to do, and I no longer like to drive at night.
After living with and taking care of my mother until she passed away, I moved in with my daughter and family, 90 miles from where I used to live. That was about five years ago. Even though I’ve joined some groups, I haven’t clicked with anyone as a friend, even though they and I have made some effort. And I have decided that it’s not a problem.
I thoroughly enjoy doing the things that I love to do and, while it would be nice to share my interests, in person, with some others, it’s no longer necessary the way it used to be. Of course, I have family right on the other side of my door if I feel lonely, and we spend as much time together as I want or need. I also periodically visit with a group of close women friends where I used to live, and we keep in touch online as well. And yes, over the years online I have made new “virtual” friends and also connected with old friends from my past lives.
I have gotten back to writing poetry — which is a solitary endeavor — and I play around with designing and making the kinds of knitwear that stores don’t sell and I like to wear. If Spring ever shows its lovely face, I will garden. I watch shows via Netflix that no one I know watches, like “Crossing Lines” and “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries.”
It is said that “happiness is not having what you want; it’s wanting what you have.” At my college reunion, an old friend asked me if I am happy. What I told him was that I was content. I want what I have, so, I suppose, I am happy.
I am certainly happy that I have two poems published in this issue of “Mused.”
Elaine – I left my reply with Ronni – but I agree with you – “who is rich – he who is happy with his lot” that has become my phil. these past years – I think 10+. I used to have folks that I knew who “kiss ass” exc. the exp. when they want you and then dump you when they dn’t – so long to that – it was never my way and now I just do what I enjoy – and so be it.
I have mostly been content with my life for many years. A happy introvert who also learned to be a happy extrovert – I skip between the two – I have the best of both worlds. That said, life sometimes is not a breeze – like now…but this is a bridge I will surely cross.
Visited “Mused” and very impressed with your work – you have a talent Elaine.
Kind regards.
Anna :o]