Active Aging

Time—there’s no greater gift

by Dana Blaszkowski

Introducing Active Aging, a new column sponsored by the Stockbridge Area Senior Center. Regardless of your age, join us each month for some pearls of wisdom inspired by the community’s most experienced residents!

Folks are placing a new value on their time. Perhaps it’s a post pandemic state of mind or the realities of today’s ever-changing world. Whatever the reason, people seem to have a new appreciation for life and living it to its fullest.

Maybe we’ve experienced loss or struggle and are resetting to make the most of our time. It could also be gratitude and celebratory joy that guide us toward living life more intentionally.

We’re seeing an emphasis on self-care, rest, and rejuvenation, with special attention to health and wellness. Increased volunteerism, creative expression, connection and time together are being celebrated with bright vigor. There’s a renewed focus on fun and pleasure in being present with friends and loved ones—and the feeling is palpable.

As we build and grow here in Stockbridge, it’s beautiful to see the many opportunities available to celebrate life. In our community, it’s wonderful to know that there are ample places to volunteer and be of service to others. Social groups, clubs and gatherings are welcoming newcomers with warm smiles and open arms. You can find plenty of places to worship, walk, and wonder at the local beauty of nature and Michigan’s seasons. Nearby, we have arts organizations and places to exercise your brain and body. There are places to play, places to party, and places to rest.

It’s easy, sometimes, to focus on what we don’t have or what we are lacking. But what we are happy to see is an eruption of abundance and a continued growth and appreciation for what we do have. As we all anticipate spring and the fresh renewal it brings, let us also continue to celebrate the freedom we have to choose what we do with our time. We get to select how and where to spend time, who we give it to, and healthy ways that help us make the most of it. As fast-paced as life can be, there’s no greater gift we can give ourselves or others.

“This time, like all times, is a very good one, if we but know what to do with it.” Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote.

Dana Blaszkowski is the director of the Stockbridge Area Senior Center (SASC), a great place to spend some time. Visit stockbridgeareaseniors.org or call 517-480-0353 for information. You can reach Dana by email at directorofsasc@gmail.com.

In 2022, the Stockbridge Area Senior Center hosted a grand opening of its new Center location where seniors are gathering and aging actively! Photo credit: Dana Blaszkowski.

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