“No, you can’t always get what you want / But if you try sometime you might find / You get what you need …” – Rolling Stones, 1969
As old as I am, I take heart that my Stones are even older than me! The time we have spent inside our homes this past gray winter has allowed me to review some of my music library that gets pushed aside in the everyday events of our lives.
And for those of us who are retired (rewired) our “everyday” has changed somewhat. That change, hopefully, includes renewed interest in taking care of ourselves through a healthy eating plan, awareness of the importance of a fitness regimen, and making time for fun activities.
Back to the Stones …or at least the lyrics! (Although one must wonder how in the world they keep going at their age – and with a past lifestyle that would have put most of us under!) I, as many of you, am not getting “what I want” these days. I want to live in a world that is less violent, more secure, with a bit of kindness and respect thrown in!
No, I can’t get “what I want” necessarily, but I am trying to “get what I need” as the song goes. I have the food I need (and some food items I have no business eating, true confession) and frankly have been reviewing some family recipes long buried in cookbooks of yore. I have, through the winter, been organizing drawers, desk, paperwork, cabinets, etc. Going through my clothes and shoes has been almost frightening – why do I hold on to so much? Tuning up my neglected instruments has been a peaceful and enjoyable experience; challenging myself to improve my long-neglected musicianship. Exercise of course – always.
So all things considered, I do have mostly what I need as most of you do as well if you are reading this column. I feel very badly for those who are suffering economically, and/or with serious health issues.
Another quote that I cherish is from Albert Schweitzer and it goes like this: “Every person I have known who has been truly happy has learned how to serve others.” I have found this to be true personally and in observation of others. There are many things we cannot control in this sometimes-crazy world, but the essence of a contented life is truly in serving others. And, in taking care of your health, you have more opportunity to experience a joyful life which, in truth, is what we all really want and ultimately what we really need.
Keep rocking, Stones!
Sharon McMahon
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.