Father Time is not always a hard parent, and, though he tarries for none of his children, often lays his hand lightly upon those who have used him well; making them old men and women inexorably enough, but leaving their hearts and spirits young and in full vigor. With such people the gray head is but the impression of the old fellow’s hand in giving them his blessing, and every wrinkle but a notch in the quiet calendar of a well-spent life.

Such was the wise observation of Charles Dickens. The words are perhaps even more applicable today than those many years ago when they were first penned.

Studies on aging continue to produce information concerning "SUCCESSFUL AGING." What is becoming more clear is that whether you are happy/healthy or sick/sad in your old age depends not so much upon luck, or the proverbial 'gene pool,' but on your own decisions when you are older.

Here are a few key facts that will set the groundwork for happy/healthy aging. First, you are equally important at 90 as you were at 25 or 45 years of age. Second, your life can, and should, still be fun and enjoyable, even if you have lost a spouse, or are putting up with chronic illness. Third, despite our tendency to try to keep things as they are, you need to continue to change and to try new things.

Mother Theresa left the world a better place, and her greatest impact was made while she was in her senior years. Applying her encouragement to your own life will help you to see the value of your senior years.

Spread love everywhere you go: first of all in your own house. Give love to your children, to your wife or husband, to a next door neighbor… Let no one ever come to you without leaving better or happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness in your warm greeting.