Being older

I finished the book today. I must say that I had a hard time relating to some of what the author was trying to do. There were some parts that rang true, i.e. enjoy what is going on now. Since I am in my 70's, that is very important. I love where I live, the house I live in and my friends, family and of course those grandchildren.

I don't give much thought to "am I happy" because I know that I am.

Funny that you posted a "Being older" topic. I was about to start a thread about that myself. I don't think Gretchen addresses how age plays into happiness, but perhaps I just don't remember. But I think we tend to be happier as we get older, too. I find myself more content than I was when I was younger, less uptight and more accepting, which I think has led to greater happiness.

Kimk,

I agree with you. Being older does make me realize what I have is very good. I too find myself more content than I was when I was younger.

The Tolstoy quote says it perfectly: "Each time of life has its own kind of love" and, as Gretchen notes, each time of life has its own kind of happiness.

I am going to give this book to my daughter. It will be interesting to see what a busy Mother who works full time and has three teenage boys thinks of the book. (If she has time to read it. Ha.)

A great reminder that the days are longer but the years are shorter. I'm 75 and the years are getting very short.

I agree. The years are getting very short. Time seems to be speeding by.

I felt age makes a difference also, as I read - being older I am not looking for such manipulated ways to make my life "happy". I treasure relationships. My favorite part was when she said she asked her husband if he - or she - should talk to his parents about the difficult things and he unequivocally said "no".

When you get older, its the small things that count. Smelling a babys head, wildflowers, starry nights, a hug when you need it.