Run the Race to Win

 







I am running the race of my life. I ask myself the day and date when I wake up before I check my watch to see if I'm correct. I also remind myself what city and country I'm in on this round-the-world five-month trip. Yes, my doctor approved the trip and ordered me to enjoy myself. At this point in time, it doesn't matter if I'm home or in Bangkok. I am following the MIND diet as much as possible and walking over 10,000 steps most days. I have new places to explore with my husband on our world trip. Everyone asks how we afford the trip. We are using up our free Air Miles and a special Air Asia deal where we can visit as many places as they fly. We find low hotel deals and even stay in hostels sometimes. So why not? I am taking one step at a time and focusing on the moment. 

We only get one shot at life. Why should we spend it watching TV in an easy chair? Have you heard of Lester Dash who made a running world record at age 100? Granted, the Penn Relays is a race for 100-year-olds, but he broke the world record for a 100-yard dash at 26.34 seconds. I think his last name is appropriate. If Dash can do it, so can I. As Lester said, "Run the race to win!" Why go after second or third place? Lester was also a World War II Veteran in the U.S. Army who stormed the shores of Normandy in battle. 

I am trying to have Lester Dash's mindset as I dive through my waves of grief over my memory loss. Why me? I have to stop feeling sorry for myself. A month ago, my Neurologist confirmed that I have Alzheimer's. The diagnosis is final. The only thing I can do now is to accept it which is a daily struggle. I read about it in books and on the Internet and it is grim. I don't want to end up a vegetable in a nursing home. I want to be running the race of my life like Lester Dash. I will not give up!

Looking at the two women's photos at the top of this Blog. I took both photos with my phone this week. The first was snapped from my Bali taxi as we drove through the mountainside to the airport. Her face shows acceptance and resilience. She has battled the hardships of life and found contentment in her age and place on earth. Granted she has the view of a lifetime from her village overlooking lush rainforests and rice fields. However, she is growing old gracefully and has accepted her time in life. She is my role model. 

My photo below it was taken yesterday in Bangkok by a Thai hairstylist who just cut and curled my hair. She took many photos from all angles to add to her portfolio. I hope my photo will send the message that women of my age still want to look good and feel good. My mom had a weekly standing Friday hair appointment to be ready for the weekend. I used to make fun of her, but now I understand the ritual. The simple act of washing and styling your hair makes you feel healthy, younger, and relaxed. I want to be more like my mom and the Bali woman. They both radiate beauty and wisdom to know how to grow old gracefully.


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