I’m told there are 78 million baby boomers out there, and I am one.  Last I heard, people above age 40 were in the majority.  Don’t get me wrong, I love reading stories about young people, in fact, some of my favorite people are under the age of 40 and aren’t related to me.  But you have to admit that in this country there are not enough stories (books or film) about or for mature people.

Many other countries revere their older persons, look to them for guidance and often show them honor (Africa, Asia, Latin America).  Our country, not so much.  Seldom do you see multiple generations living under one roof, and if you do, then the grandparents or great grandparents are shuffled off to their little room in the back of the house.  Or, worse yet, the kids move as far away as possible and suggest the elders get their care from strangers in a “facility.” At least, that’s the way it was when my parents were younger. With the influx of Latin and Asian cultures in our country, the tradition of extended family living together or close to one another may be increasing.

I moved in with Grandma when I went to college. I helped around the house, grocery shopped, and took her to see Grandpa who was in a nursing home because of serious health issues.  She taught me SO much, and I miss her dearly.  Those feelings in part are what inspired me to write Feisty Family Values. My Grandmother was like my Mother and my Best Friend.  And when she talked, I listened.

I’m also privileged to write feature stories for Active Aging magazine. And the stories these people share are remarkable and inspiring.  There are ordinary people doing extraordinary things every day, and they’re over the age of 50 folks! Many of us are aging with grace, but some of us struggle to get the help and support needed. We’re not too old to provide value on the job, in the family, or to society as a whole, so “listen” when we speak. Listen to our stories.  We have a lot to teach and we’re willing to share. And that’s just one of the reasons I write about baby boomers. Care to comment?