When I'm 64

 

The well-known song by The Beatles was released in 1967. I was 10 years old. This picture a little later than 10 but in my teenage years. It was a song that we sang throughout those crazy, carefree teenage years.  We loved the songs, sang along but never really had context to the meaning. Today I have context. I am 64.

According to the world wide web, Paul McCartney wrote this song for his dad when he turned 64.

In 1967, reaching the age of 65 was a gift only a few achieved. Today this may be closer in context to 84. Longevity is the gift.

Gail Sheehy, is quoted as saying today’s 64-year-olds have a "360-degree view of life." They may believe in yesterday, but they also can't stop thinking about tomorrow.

The new 64," Sheehy said, "is more like 84."

When I get older losing my hair

The hair is not lost but I am now a natural platinum blond

Many years from now
Will you still be sending me a Valentine.

Gosh I have not had one of those for years!

Birthday greetings bottle of wine

As I turn 64, you cannot even send the bottle of wine due to lockdown.

If I'd been out till quarter to three
Would you lock the door?

9pm sounds much better to me!

Will you still need me, will you still feed me
When I'm sixty-four?

At 64 I am still independent and live alone.

I do so appreciate the meals and times together over the years with friends and family.

Long may it last.

You'll be older too
And if you say the word
I could stay with you.

I have discovered that I am an introvert and love my own company.

I love my friends and family and connect often but enjoy my solitude too.

I could be handy, mending a fuse
When your lights have gone
You can knit a sweater by the fireside
Sunday mornings go for a ride
Doing the garden, digging the weeds
Who could ask for more?

Yes, I do miss having someone around to help with the things I struggle to do. A long way off sitting by the fire, knitting, more likely to find me engaging on my computer with people around the world around my areas of interest.

Will you still need me, will you still feed me
When I'm sixty-four

Every summer we can rent a cottage
In the Isle of Wight, if it's not too dear
We shall scrimp and save
Grandchildren on your knee
Vera, Chuck and Dave

The family is scattered across 4 continents and I spend my retirement savings visiting those closest to me ….. sadly, not this year but hopefully again soon

Send me a postcard, drop me a line
Stating point of view
Indicate precisely what you mean to say
Yours sincerely, wasting away

The thing I love the most about my birthday is spending time with those I care about. The calls, messages and thoughts are always welcome.

Give me your answer, fill in a form
Mine for evermore
Will you still need me, will you still feed me
When I'm sixty-four

The vision of life at 64 cannot be imagined at 10, 24 or even 44. The most important thing I have learnt is to be true to myself.  Life happens along the way. Manage the grief, work through the challenges, and discover who you truly are.  Live your life with purpose. Value your relationships. I did not plan to live alone at 64, but that is what life has delivered. However I am not alone. I am at peace.

Life is a gift I value every day. Thank you to all who have been part of that journey over the 64 years.

I love and appreciate you. I still need you at 64.