Lots, if you are lucky enough to have a classic partner

(Posted by Ron)


My son who has a degree in electrical engineering is back in college.  This time he’s studying the restoration of classic cars.  Yes, you can get such a degree.  If you’ve read my post about being a chemistry experiment you know that I have a cardiologist who seems to be restoring a classic Ron.

Have you seen the movie Gran Torino?  If not, I highly recommend it.  The 1972 Ford Gran Torino in the movie is beautiful.  The 78 year-old director and star, Clint Eastwood, is a classic in his own right.

I’ve traveled throughout the world and spent quite a bit of time in Asia.  In those travels I’ve noticed something that many of us may have only read about.  In most countries the elderly are looked up to for their wisdom.  In many cases they live with their extended families until they pass.  In our country the elderly are quite often warehoused in various types of extended care facilities.

Gran Torino is about a man who refused to be discounted or warehoused because of his age.  It also showcases Clint Eastwood once again (although he says this was his last acting role.)  Gayle thinks he is sexy.  She also thinks Sean Connery, also 78, is sexy.  Maybe it’s just that she likes old guys – after all, she’s married to me and I may get old someday.

I recently saw a picture of Helen Mirren wearing a bikini.  She looked hot.  She is 63.  Consider Raquel Welch (68), Jane Fonda (71) or Sophia Loren (73).  Sure, some of them may have had some work done but some haven’t.

Aging is becoming a relative term in our times.  78+ year old men and women are still very active and most of them aren’t even celebrities.  Harrison Ford is my age and still making movies (and his partner is younger than Gayle.)  I see so many questions about dating or marrying an older man or woman.  Will they leave me?  Will they stay active?  Will I be bored or end up taking care of them when they get sick?

Good questions, but no answers are available.  The real question to ask is – “do I love them enough to spend my life with them?”  This should be the  same question you ask before commiting to any relationship.  Young people also get sick and need care.  They die.  They become disabled.  Age is not a good measure.  After all, will you be able to keep up with a Clint Eastwood or Helen Mirren when it’s your “aging” partner who has figured out how to stay young and vital?  That’s a good question.  Take a chance and find out.

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