Today’s Post by Joe Farace
By the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it. ~ George Burns
On a personal note: I have a confession to make: Ias a member of The Silent Generation aka Radio Babies* am a senior citizen. I usually don’t have any trouble telling people my age but, Mary doesn’t like me to share this information. you see, Mary is 13 years younger than me and when I tell people my age, she’s concerned that they will think she’s that old too! And she has a thing about aging. Although her family is long-lived. Her parents, seen below lived until they were 96-years old and no matter how you slice it, that’s a good run. With all that in mind, let’s celebrate National Senior Citizens Day.
On August 21st, National Senior Citizens Day recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of our nation. The day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives.
How Mary Made This Shot: I made this photograph of my parents on the occasion of my late mother’s 90’th birthday using my Nikon V1 and Nikkor VR 30-110mm f/3.8-5.6 lens (at 30mm) with an exposure of 1/250 sec at f/7.1 and ISO 1600. My father who passed away in 2021, was 88 years old when this photo was made and this portrait, I think, captures the love that these two people had for one another.
#SeniorCitizensDay
According to the 2017 census, 47 million seniors live in the United States. By 2060, that number will nearly double. Their wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience offer so much to the next generation. As technologies advance, these are the people who’ve experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today.
Our senior citizens are pioneers of science, medicine, psychology, civil rights, photography too and so much more. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live. They deserve the respect and dignity their achievements earn them. The day encourages supporting senior citizens to live their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY
- Spend time with the senior citizens you know. Let them know they are appreciated and loved. It may also be a good day to volunteer at a retirement home. Share your smile with those who may not otherwise get a visitor today.
- If you are a senior citizen, check for special discounts and promotions that may be offered at stores and restaurants in your area. (We earned it!)
* Mary recently discovered an essay on people born around the time when I was that was and was “the smallest group of children born since the 1900’s.” It includes some interesting facts and observations about we “traditionalists” that I plan to add to some upcoming posts.