The hill may be farther off than it seems

I read, with more interest than usual, Phil Dirkx’s column “Taking a Victory Lap in Old Age” (March 31). I feel compelled to say how unique it seemed, for me, to read how some find different strokes (no pun intended) for different folks in what Mr. D. identifies as “symbolic” of his age group.

I am 88, now living with three Scottie roommates (after the loss of my life partner of 45 years) and find myself still ascending that infamous hill in the pattern of a daily lifestyle that has suited me just fine.

I walk, unaided, with all of my dogs daily. I drive my SLK230, stick shift, roadster (always with the top down when it’s sunny). I spend a lot of time in the kitchen, with friends on the Internet and at local eateries. And I read the daily Tribune in its original form as a newspaper. I also write letters to the editor on occasion.

Still dancing just as fast as I can (and, yes, I do that also, solo, around the living room), and enjoying every minute of it on my way up the hill.

This story was originally published April 4, 2016 at 4:35 AM with the headline "The hill may be farther off than it seems."