We have a lot of work to do in breaking down stereotypes of older adults and aging.
Recently, I heard a reporter ask a radio show guest, "What do you think of Leonard Cohen releasing a new album now that he is 77 years old?" The guest's response was: "He still has something to say and people want to hear it."
The Canadian icon just released his first studio album since 2004. And he just happens to be 77 years old. Fans have been waiting with baited breath for some new material from him. Still cool, mysterious, sexy and overflowing with talent, of course people want to hear what Cohen has to say.
How odd to think that entering the third quarter of life would prevent this talented man from producing beautiful art.
Age doesn't prevent people having ideas nor wanting to share those ideas with an audience. Creativity, passion and wisdom are uniquely human aspects that need to be cultivated and shared.
A legend maintains status in our collective subconscious because we place value on it. A legend represents something that we hold dear, sacred. This is how it should be. A man or woman who is 77 years old still has ideas, dreams, thoughts and wisdom to share.
They may not have a global audience like Cohen, but they still have something to say that can have a positive impact. Sometimes we just need to listen more closely rather than counting the number of years the person has existed.
3 comments:
i hope i'd be well enough to put out an album (and probably tour) at 77... good for him! BB King is 85 and still tours!!
EB
Great article! So nice to be reminded about positive role models for seniors!
You're only as old as you feel. Tony Bennett at 85 keeps belting out the hits with the pop stars no less, and he is as cool as they come. Still relevant and talented after all these years. It's nice to hear Leonard is keeping the flame lit.
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