Friday, September 25, 2015

Senior Citizen

There are a couple of “old age” symbols that I feel show you’ve crossed over the edge if you qualify. An invitation from the American Association of Retired People (AARP) and that little blue card that hangs from the rear view mirror of vehicles, the handicap parking tag. I know that the latter can be used by anyone that’s disabled and I respect that, but I personally associate it with older people. I guess it’s from spending so much time in Florida where the handicap parking space is usually taken by a senior citizen. I guess I’m officially a senior citizen.

On a recent trip to my doctor I was told that it’s time to file for permanent disability with the U.S. government. My back is as good as it’s going to get and more importantly, I can no longer do the job I love to do. As a matter of fact, it would be impossible for me to do any 40 hour workweek job. It’s tough to get hired when you can only stand or sit for short durations. That pretty much sucks because I’m a type A workaholic. I love to be doing something pretty much all the time and my back won’t let me.

It’s also tough for me to walk long distances, so I asked about the handicap parking permit. The Doc said I certainly qualify, filled out the form and next thing you know I have the blue tag on the mirror. Like I said, I guess I’m officially a senior citizen.

I’ve never feared old age. It beats the alternative and the alternative is what I’m currently fighting against. Death is a scary thing. I’d really like to avoid it if possible. At least for now. I’m going to work hard at that.