A New Year, A New Narrative: Defying Ageism and Embracing Change

I've long maintained that no one has a monopoly on ideas, and we, regardless of age, have the right to contribute to the issues affecting our well-being and that of our community. This is particularly true if we are to address the all-too-pervasive discriminatory practice of ageism.?

An equal opportunity offender, ageism serves simply to marginalize and devalue individuals based solely upon a perception that people of a certain age, appearance, or station in life have little, if anything, to contribute to the betterment of society.?

If you are one of the offended, then you know that nothing could be further from the truth. Some of you have achieved remarkable success. Others are still on their journey toward achieving their desired goals.

In this era of increased lifespans, the pursuit of dreams is not confined to the young. It resides within anyone of any age who believes they have something valuable to contribute to improving themselves and society.

Whether compensated for your efforts or volunteering one's time, one universal truth remains: we all need to feel needed.?

Ageism robs us of that need by fostering an environment that limits rather than embraces the opportunities that come with age.?

I continue to be impressed by the breadth and depth of experience, insight, and enthusiasm generated by the individuals increasingly subscribing to this newsletter. We are approaching 500?as we embark on a new year.

All are focused on changing how we see ourselves and one another as we age. Instead of accepting the myths and biases about age, they are pioneering new ways to embrace growing old with the dignity and respect age deserves.

The array of talents and interests of our subscribers covers the entirety of life's challenges. They demonstrate the similarity of global issues, needs, impacts, and opportunities facing everyone everywhere.

Our movement aims to serve as a conduit for change by bringing together like-minded people who are passionate and committed to upending the status quo.

Too often, people judged strictly by the date on their birth certificate continue to be denied opportunities to share their talents, skills, enthusiasm, or interests with others.

This newsletter, therefore, is intended to share the stories, viewpoints, and insights of these remarkable and not-so-remarkable people who desire to support, encourage, and contribute time, talent, energy, or connections to meaningful and life-affirming causes.?

The beauty of connecting with like-minded people is the opportunity to learn from one another wherever they reside.?

An idea that spurs action in one country can be the spark that ignites similar initiatives elsewhere. It's all a matter of perspective.?

Do we allow ourselves to remain shackled by self-imposed limitations, or are we open to the possibilities that lie ahead?

Take, for example, the work of Stacy Shewey, Founder and CEO, and Fr. Theodore Ihenetu, Executive Director, Nigeria, of Hands4Life https://www.h4lworld.org, ?a community concept bringing together orphaned elderly and orphaned children to form a unique new family under one roof.?

They are but one example of concepts and actions that serve to spawn enthusiasm, creativity, and opportunity for similar ventures in neighborhoods and communities, urban and rural, halfway around the world.?

I'm seeking those weary of ageist stereotypes, have unwavering faith in themselves, refuse to accept 'no' as an answer, are excited to volunteer their time, and are ready to have some fun. Together, we can be part of a movement that challenges the status quo worldwide.

As we start the New Year, let's begin the journey together.

#ageism #positiveaging #Intergenerationalfriendships #senioradvocacy #innovation