Monday, November 14, 2011

Aging Gracefully

I recently read an online article which identified 30 celebrities who were deemed to be "aging gracefully". This topic happens to be one about which I feel strongly and something which everyone should try to achieve.

Among the celebrities named were several still in their 40s, doubtfully "aging" at this point. But what intrigued me more was the definition of "aging gracefully."

Certain of the identified celebrities have been outspoken against plastic surgery of any type. I happen to agree, although those listed most likely have had at least a little "work" performed. I wouldn't think too many people wish to resemble a hood ornament on a vintage automobile, windswept and forever frozen in place. Moderation is good in all things.

Aging gracefully requires more than cosmetic retouches or hair color, involving more attitude and self-confidence than skin texture. People who are "aging gracefully" have a certain joie de vivre, a vitality that sets them apart. I recently watched "The Holiday", a 2006 movie featuring a then-90-year-old Eli Wallach. The actor and his performance personified this joie de vivre. (If you haven't watched it, the film is well worth your time.)

The recent list of celebrities omitted several people who I would have included: Cloris Leachman, Eli Wallach, George Clooney, Julie Harris, James Cromwell, and Tom Wilkinson to name a few. But among those included in the article were:

Diane Keaton
Clint Eastwood
Helen Mirren
Meryl Streep
Denzel Washington
Pierce Brosnan
Emma Thompson
Jamie Lee Curtis
Isabella Rossellini
Bette White
Annette Bening

It is good to remind the public that aging should not to be dreaded. As the majority of the Baby Boomers join the "stay natural" movement, more people will learn to roll with the punches.

To quote Oscar Wilde: "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken."

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