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Reprinted by permission from:
Press-Republican, Plattsburgh, NY. Lois Clermont, News
Editor
(
http://www.pressrepublican.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage
)
Always New Hobbies to
Develop
By: LORRAINE LILJA
"Dear World, I am leaving you because I am bored," read the suicide note of
actor George Sanders. For goodness sake, why?
A sampler in my childhood home: "The world is so full of a number of things, I
am sure we should all be happy as kings." That's still true, in spades.
Our roles have changed as we age, and things that once occupied us pale. Good
cooks find it's not fun anymore with no one around to partake of the
offerings. Activities that required a partner or more strength than we now
have are set aside. Former femme fatales find it odious to be the last rose of
summer.
Whatever your age, you can find a new interest. Consider Grandma Moses, who
started painting at 76. Her paintings sell for tens of thousands today. It's
said she started painting because her arthritic hands couldn't embroider
anymore. If you would like to paint, watercolor or acrylic is a good choice.
They dry quickly, and make little mess. Lessons are offered at schools,
museums, and Michael's.
Your loved ones would treasure a book of memories. Write of your life in
simpler times, when the pace was slower. Remember what you did, wore, said,
and hoped for. Explain the conditions that existed, the reasons you made the
choices you made. Describe momentous events, both happy and sad. Tell tales of
when the children were young. There are lessons in journal writing that could
help you get started.
I've often touted the computer as a wonderful plaything for seniors. I typed
"suicide note" in Google to find and verify Sanders' note. You can find
references to anything on the web: recipes, books, history, games, worldwide
news, or updates on anything you find interesting. And the instant e-mail
communication with family or friends sure beats Post Office "snail mail." The
Senior Center conducts lessons.
We may need "a little help from our friends." If your circle has shrunk, it's
time to make new ones. We're all in the same boat, you know. Social contact is
renewing, and we all need a good laugh now and then. There's lunch at the
Senior Center. If you don't have wheels, call them and ask if you can hitch a
ride with someone. Churches and social organizations are another possibility.
Maybe you can even teach a skill you have acquired.
There are as many activities as there are people. Think back and identify
something you always thought you'd enjoy. Short of skydiving, chances are that
you can do it today. You have the time now, and it would be good for you. You
no longer have to answer to anybody. Your time is your own.
If you say you are bored, and you can't find the energy to partake of any of
the above cures, chances are you are depressed. It's more common than you
think, particularly in these "cabin fever" months. Talk it over with your
doctor. You won't find happiness in a little pill, but you can move on to a
cheerier frame of mind and a new supply of energy with his/her help. I know.
I've been there.
Lorraine Lilja is a retired Press-Republican reporter. A collection of her
columns, "Lilja's World" is for sale at local book stores. Lilja can be
reached at llilja17@hotmail.com.
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See Seniorark hobbies page for Senior Hobby Ideas:
I need a hobby
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