When I sit down like I am this afternoon, I just never know where my mind will take me, and today is no different so let’s begin. It has been some time since reflections were made here about The Fourth Quarter, and as I hit year #76 before this month is over, it would seem like a good time to take a measure of things. I read somewhere recently that increasingly with each birthday “It is better to be seen than viewed”—made me laugh. While combing my hair this morning (and yes, glad I still have enough to make that necessary), I noticed it is all gray. Now how the heck did that happen? I continue to enjoy my 5:30 a.m. 4-5 mile walks most days but also upon return home, take Jevity 1.2 through PEG and then lay down for 30-40 minutes. I never used to do that but now it is becoming part of my daily routine. Maybe, just maybe, I am getting older.
I was reading some old correspondence the other day and came across a folder that contained nice things that folks had written about me over the years—you were a good teacher, you made a speech that had a profound effect on me, thanks for helping me get back into school after I flunked out, thanks for looking in on my parents, that sort of thing. That reminded me of something I heard on CBS Sunday Morning a few years ago: “How we live today will determine how we live tomorrow.” That seems to make good sense. Of course, having just patted myself on the back, I recall when former W.I.U. President A.L. Knoblauch gave me a plaque with sage advice: “Don’t take yourself too seriously” so there must be some balance in there somewhere.
As we age, we can’t help but think about what lies ahead and what is in the rear view mirror. Someone brighter than me once told me that “They were not afraid of tomorrow…for I have seen yesterday and I love today.” Some days it is too cold, others too hot, some days it rains and sometimes it’s too windy, but each day is a gift and I appreciate that I am here to enjoy it.
I have always had faith in my doctors now even more so. When they tell me to wear the mask, get the vaccine, get the booster, get the shingles, flu, and pneumonia shots I do so without question hoping it will keep the grim reaper at bay. I’ve found the past few months that it is easier to get sick and more challenging to remain healthy so I need to do whatever it takes to keep sickness away with moderate exercise, healthy diet, and getting enough sleep leading the way. About 20 years ago, an older woman on the beach (she had to be at least 77) once told me, “Young man, every day above ground is a great day.” Eureka!! She nailed that one.
While there is a certain inevitability to life and whatever follows, we simply need to do our best to enjoy each day, each week, each month, and each year to the fullest. I’m told by readers of this blog that they are impressed by my resilience with all that has happened in the past year and my reply is pretty simple. Keeping a positive mental attitude is easy when you live with someone who is supportive; I hit the jackpot there with Diane. I’m sure I’ve said it before but it bears repeating. When Clint Eastwood was asked how he remains so vibrant at his advanced age, he smiled and said, “I don’t let the old man in” and neither will I. I’ve read where age is an asset as with time and experience, we learn to handle life’s challenges with more grace. However, as humorist Richard Armour once wrote:.
Lately, I appear
To have reached that stage
When people look old
Who are only my age.
Like me, I’ll bet that’s happened to some of you.
When I think about the entire picture, there are parts of aging that are actually quite liberating. I know a couple of people who will read this blog who will stridently disagree with my advocating getting the COVID vaccine. Guess what? I really don’t care My family knows me as being the “be on time guy” and now I find myself way more patient than I used to be. I don’t question myself as much these days. If I’m wrong, so be it, and I’ll live with the consequences of the choices I make. Getting old sets you free to do as you please and make decisions without undue guilt or remorse.
In the totality of things, I’m not disappointed in the person I’ve become. Perfect no, but a loving Dad and Grandpa who cares deeply about others and when the time comes (many years from now) I’ll have tried to leave things better than I found them. For me, I’m enjoying the journey as I get to spend it with the young girl from Winthrop Harbor who I met on a blind date at Lake Argyle on April 1, 1967—doesn’t get any better than that.
Gordy and the Fourth Quarter 
Well done gordo
All so true. Happy Birthday and Best Wishes, always.
Have a great birthday. Good advice. I know through the years having you give “the speech” in my classes that you have touched many student’s lives in a positive manner. Every time I heard you speak I always got some new insight to apply to my life.
Thinking of you, Gordy, and wishing you a very happy birthday tomorrow!
John
Blessings! You’ve said it perfectly–again!
I really look forward to your blogs. We are blessed every day and our job is to share love, kindness, and caring with others. Keep it up!
Thanks for the update! You won’t hear any argument from me about masks and vaccines!
Nicely said,Gordy! Happy birthday!
Happy Birthday, Gordy! Enjoy the day and the year ahead.
Nicely done Gordy! It’s always a great day for me when I get to read your words! Thanks!
Another reflection that touches us all. Share the kindness, love and caring for others!!
I’m glad you are thinking “positive thoughts”, best ever
Happy Birthday Gordy. Best of everything.
You have great insight. It’s amazing how aging and grandchildren change your perspective. I clean less and spend as much time with loved ones as possible. Happy Birthday Gordy, enjoy your day doing things that make you happy!
We often in our lives find moments that touch us deeply, a good friend who was 25 days younger than me moved on this week. Much sadness but yet I know he got everything he possibly could out of life. Great mind, grater Family, wonderful person. Gordy, you relly quietly remind us to appreciate what has been and look forward to what is to come and love every day. I love your reflections! Keep writing! We all Love You!!
First Happy, Happy Birthday Gordy!! Another excellent blog, I so enjoy your posts!! In a week I’ll be 11 months away from 80 and I just can’t imagine I’m going to be that old! I can relate to much of what you write about. Aging is not for the week!! -Sandi
Life is very precious, and is a gift. As we get older, doing what we believe in is ok, as people have many varying opinions on everything these days. Having the ones we love, trust and are most comfortable with by our sides is also a gift, and one we should appreciate them as well as every moment we are blessed with.
love you and Diane very much. And yes Gordy, you are very lucky to have Diane.
Again, well done. As a wife I appreciate your praise /love for Diane. Age is indeed all about how we see ourselves. Thanks for the update. Hope you’re enjoying Florida🥰
Great post Gordy, as always. Happy birthday!! We love you. Ruth and Steve
Gordy when I first read the title Rule #6 I immediately thought of Leroy Jethro Gibbs of NCIS fame. I then started to compare you to him and realized there were definitely some similarities. Everyone respected Gibbs as they do you along with the thought of being a “deep:” thinker. You more fortunately than Gibbs has Diane at your side for the two of you to make your way thru life’s challenges. Anyway just a thought
Today is the big day so celebrate and enjoy the moment. Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday, Gordy! And yes, you are lucky to have Diane by your side!
Happy Birthday, it is always a pleasure to read your Blog. It makes me feel better about life, and I know that is what you are aiming for. You are indeed a lucky man to have found Diane.
Same for my brother John finding his wonderful wife Chris. I am blessed to have my family too. I wish you a Healthy Year. I will be there “76” before long also.
Glad you ran into John and Chris on Marco.🎉🎂🎊🙏🤗🥰👍
Thank you Gordy, needed this reflection of age today, great pick me up!
A very Happy Birthday to you dear friend! Take care ❤
Another great blog.Hope your birthday is wonderful!
Happy Birthday Many of us are BIG winners with the partner we were given to live with.
Thanks, Gord
good reflection Gordy! i don’t mind aging – it seems to be the best time of my life minus the aches, pains and surgeries. those distractions just make living each day more special! i am thinking that i must be where my parents were at this age – thinking that the world is going to hell – we seem to have lost our values when people can steal with no sequence – is this only in California? anyway, i watch the news less and focus more on friends. Would love to have spent another hour with you in recent years! perhaps it may still happen. Love to you and Diane!
Happy Birthday Gordy and hope for many more! All the best to you and Diane from your friend from Zion
Words to live by at any age, thanks for the reminder. All the best to you and Diane. HAPPY BIRTHDAY GORDY – cheers to you!!
Always enjoy reading your blog Gordy. Inspirational reliance and positivity carries the day. And no doubt a supportive and loving partner makes all the difference! I can say the same for Lori – my wife for 33 years next month!
Always great to read your positive blogs!
Don’t ever start acting your age! Be well!
Love reading your posts Gordy….I’ve often reflected and try to live by the premise of Hunter Thompsons famous quote “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!”
Live your days to their fullest, build memories with those closest to you and Love them with all your heart!
Another thoughtful and motivating blog Gordy. You never disappoint and I always learn something new from your messages. Thanks again for continuing to be my all time favorite teacher.
Gordy: Your positive attitude and resiliance in the face of serious medical challenges is inspiring. Our paths crossed many times over the years and as I recall began in the 3rd grade at the Monroe Annex. One of the most memorable times was in Sep 1970. I had been in the Army 3yrs, and after earning an Associates degree at COD I came to WIU as Junior. In my first business class, there you were as the Instructor! Unbeliveable! I studied very hard in that class and got an A.