When someone wishes you Happy New Year or Happy Birthday, think of them saying, "It's good to be alive" with the changing of a calendar year or a personal birthday year. This is according to Joan Chittister's book, “THE GIFT OF YEARS”.

This book is intended for individuals approaching or experiencing ‘the golden years’, which is the age of retirement typically around age 65 and lasting for a longer period. The book is also for anyone concerned about aging parents, or for anyone who wants to reflect upon their own aging process.

Instead of thinking of growing older as losing something, Chittister says that we should think about what we are gaining, such as the gifts of perspective, gratitude, and grace. To age is a privilege rather than a burden, considering that many Americans are living much longer than their ancestors. It is a gift to see grandchildren and great grandchildren grow and thrive.  Not everyone is granted this gift. Each birthday is a blessing. 

A team of German and Swiss Scientists conducted a survey of over 460,000 participants from different countries and cultures, focusing on subjective wellbeing, satisfaction with life, positive and negative states, and they reached the conclusion that age 70 is when we maximize our growth in those areas with a decline afterwards! What was important in determining longevity was the “lifestyle pillars of aging", which include social and meaningful relationships and connections, healthy diet, exercise, adequate sleep, financial management and spiritual wellbeing.

The key themes of the book are: 

Reframing Ageism -The book challenges glorifying youth and degrading old age, presenting aging as a natural process rather than a handicap.

Spiritual exploration - It explores the potential of later life and its fulfillment.

Embracing the Present - It is time to become more of what we were and to continue to live out your values each day.

Wisdom and Service -It highlights wisdom gained with age and the opportunity for service and contribution to the community. This is evident in the Pinehills, where so many residents volunteer at the Hospital, the Senior Center, the Library, Plymouth museums and other services.

Practical Approach - Each chapter of the book includes the "burdens and the blessings" of aging, offering a realistic perspective of the struggles and joys of growing older.

So, next time you hear someone wish you a "Happy Birthday", think of it as a wish granting you a gift of years and be grateful for that precious gift.