Spiritual Sparks For Baby Boomers™

"Spiritual Sparks for Baby Boomers™" is the Syndicated On-Line Weekly Column by National Author/Writer/Columnist/Speaker and Celebrity Radio Talk Show Host, Shirley W. Mitchell, also known as "The Golden Egg of Aging™" - Fashioned after her Weekly Newspaper Column "Fabulous after Fifty™" in the Sand Mountain Reporter of Albertville, Alabama. View some of the most inspirational and motivational articles on aging, baby boomers, seniors, senior lifestyles, health, diet, exercise, business, women's issues, specific topic articles, poems, writings, recipes, area news, and special people. We want to thank the newspaper for it's continued support, and thank all our readers for their support of this column over the years, as we inspire to bring more Style and Enthusiasm to it in the future. In the early years, 1967-1980, this feminine Woman with the intricasy of "Lace", and the hardened Passions of "Steel" combined the education and experience of the two attributes into, "Lace Over Steel™" - Her First Original Column... then as time progressed, and her Hopes, Dreams and Desires grew within, her provocative soul emerged to enlighten those into a "New Era of Aging" - to be "Fabulous" above, beyond, and after, the interestingly different beginning of the Second Half of Life, which introduced the now popular, "Fabulous after Fifty™"... these Passions have now grown excitingly colorful & ambianic, giving way to a newer, more important, level of awareness to Re-Light Life in growing older but feeling younger while sharing the lessons of Life, in showing those how to - Discover... Aging Outside the Box™, to Live with Power, Style & Vitality... Shirley's weekly column, "Fabulous after Fifty™" in the popular Sand Mountain Reporter is seen every Thursday. "Spiritual Sparks for Baby Boomers™" will be available every Sunday! Shirley Mitchell's "Passion" for encouraging Aging people is both Contagious and Intense! We have the ability to change Aging History with our "Pulse" & "Faith". To Teach. To Educate. To Transform. If you enjoy the Articles posted here, you will certainly enjoy my new Column Articles within  "Senior Lifestyle Magazine" & "Senior Evangelism Partnership", and the Articles of the Stellar Staff including Rev. David Noreen, Charles "Chip" Arn, Greg Asimakoupoulos, Leona Bergstrom, Dr. Richard L. Bergstrom, D. Min., Roger O. Braaten, L. G. "Bud" Everitt, Dr. Richard H Gentzler, Jr., Donald Koepke, Dr. David Powell, Dan Seagren and Rusty Wright. I am also a Featured Columnist-Writer in "Passionate for Life" Magazine. "The Amazing System" is the Listing of Websites that we are accepting "Advertising" on for those of you who would like to gain more of a "Presence" on the Internet !     Lace Over Steel™ On-Line Schedule    Aging Outside the Box™ Radio Show                                                  Get on a BookTour !    Passionate Sparks™ On-Line Newsletter   Buy Fabulous™   Buy Sensational™ No part of this Web-Site or Column may be reproduced without the prior written consent of the Agent. If you would like to purchase copies of the articles, please send an E-Mail to us with your request. If you should encounter any problems with this Web-Site please E-Mail the Webmaster. Shirley W. Mitchell and Spiritual Sparks for Baby Boomers™ is Managed and Represented by Lighthouse Coastal Literary, Lighthouse Coastal Productions and Lighthouse News Bureau 466 Sardis Cutoff Road Sardis City, AL 35956

The Future is Coming

1990 Lace Over Steel © ™ - The Future is Coming © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist The Baby Boomers are getting older. In 1996, the leading edge of the 76 million babies born between 1946 and 1964 will reach 50 years old. Dr. Ken Dychtwald, author of the "Age Wave," compares this segment of our society with a 76 million pound elephant marching across America. This march of the aging elephant will endure for 18 years. The approaching "Age Wave" was produced by the (1) senior boom (Americans are living longer, healthier and more active lives); (2) the birth dearth (the number of children being born will not offset the growing elder population); and (3) the aging baby boomers. As we anticipate this giant elephant of golden oldies, we must prepare for the future. One solution is to create healthy aging. As science moves into better control of diseases, and people learn to exercise, eat and think healthy for prevention, at 90 years of age one could feel good. Bob Hills, vice president of Merck and Co., made the statement, "We must make healthy aging a norm." Maddy Kent Dychtwald, a member of Age Wave Inc., stated at a recent Age Wave Conference, "Contrary to popular opinion there is life after youth, and life can be good. "She believes Americans will change their paradigm from number of years lived to life stages. We experience stages of life. Some examples are youth, parenting, career, empty nest, grandparenting, etc. As youth migrates into middle age, forty to sixty year olds will be center stage. America's old paradigm for life has been to march through life then retire at 65. The new paradigm will favor cyclic life or serial life. As we live longer and better, we will start new careers, new hobbies and new skills in mid-life. Life keeps getting better instead of deteriorating. Age will be in charge of the future. Richness of life, God, family (roots), quality time, connecting with people, dining, care giving, dancing, music, adventure, gaining new skills, learning, traveling, exercise, health and spiritual growth will take precedent over things.

ReSpark Your Fire For Life

July 11, 2004 - ReSpark Your Fire For Life © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist... "Exercise," writes Michael Roizen, "is a whole-body phenomenon. It doesn't just make your muscles stronger; it slows down the aging of your entire body. Exercise affects everything: your cardiovascular system, your immnune system, your musculoskeletal system and your emotional well-being. It affects you all the way to your cells." What a superb feeling to be alive in a healthy body! To take control of our health and well-being in only minutes a day seems either miraculous or ridiculous. But the studies don't lie. Exercise can rekindle and re-spark our fire for life. What a remarkable return on our investment! With a healthy respect for our bodies, we can say with the Psalmist. "I am fearfully and wonderfully made...And my soul knows it very well" (Psalm 139:14, NASB). Top Ten Shape-up Strategies: Remember, the more you move, the longer you live. Movement lowers stress, which contributes to the No.1 killer, heart disease. Walk! It's cheap, local and simple. So does variety. Music makes exercise more appealing. Accountability to a friend, group or trainer increases the likelihood of sticking to a plan. Acting on any plan within four days is vital to its success. Start small. A few minutes a day will reap enormous rewards. Four areas which retard aging: stretching, strenght, stamina and balance. We're never too old to improve our physical fitness. Never.

Books Make A Good Read

July 18, 2004 - Books Make A Good Read © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist What a thrill I had when the announcer introduced Bill Simmons, CEO of the Bible Factory Outlet of Albertville at the Christian Booksellers Association's International Convention in Atlanta last week.Simmons represented us well as he introduced my favorite author, John Eldredge, and shared his testimony of how John's books changed his life. He is the author of "Wild at Heart" and co-author of 'The Sacred Romance." Eldredge launched his new book, "The Glory of a Heart Fully Alive Waking the Dead." He shared Proverbs 4:23 NIV on the jacket of his book: "Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the well-spring of life." "How has the central truth been lost...that the heart is the center of human life? It is the connecting point between you and others, between you and God. In fact, the heart is where we receive that life God offers and we long for a life flowing through us, as Jesus said in rivers. And it is through your heart that God wants to change the world."In "Waking the Dead," John Eldredge shows us how God restores our hearts, our true humanity and sets us free. Eldredge said there are four streams through which we can discover the abundant life: walking with God, receiving His intimate counsel, deep restoration and spiritual warfare. Once the 'eyes of our hearts' are opened, we will embrace three eternal truths. Things are not what they seem. There is a world at war. Each of us has a crucial role to play. A battle is raging and it is a battle for your heart.Since our readers love to read, from time to time, I will share books with you I think you will enjoy. Please Send me a Comment if you enjoyed John Eldredge's books.

Torchbearers Into The Millenium

July 25, 2004 - Torchbearers Into The Millenium © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist What an awesome time to be living. We are standing at the threshold of the 2004 Olympics. We're enjoying the fourth year of the new millenium. The explosion of knowledge and communication will catapult us into new beginnings, new adventures and new ways of thinking. We have seen such rapid advancements in our lifetime. For instance, the Wright Brothers flew the first airplane on Dec. 17, 1903. Sixty-five years later Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon. We can only imagine the advancements of the future. We will be torchbearers for the next thousand years. When I think of torchbearers, I think of the Olympic games which take place every four years. Excitement surrounds the Olympics with colorful ceremonies and thrilling athletic competition. One of the most impressive parts of the Olympics is the opening ceremony. The athletes march to the stadium led by the athletes of Greece, where the original Olympics were held. The leader of the host country declares the games open, the Olympic flag is raised, cannons boom and as a symbol of peace, 100 doves are released into the air. The most moving part of the opening is the lighting of the Olympic flame. Four weeks before the opening of the games, a lighted torch is brought from the valley of Olympia, Greece by relay runners. Ships and planes transport the torch over seas and mountains. The final runner carries the torch into the stadium, making a dramatic pass around the track before lighting the flame. I recently sat under the teaching of Dr. Dennis E. Hensley. He has a new book out, Millenium Approaches, an exciting look at the wonderful world of the 21st Century. Dr. Hensley says "Building on the momentum of the remarkable achievements of the 20th Century, we are about to enter a new era of transformation that will affect virtually every area of our lives." Here are some of the headlines we are likely to see as we enter the 21st century: Robot power replaces human power, Businesses flourish in remote mountain areas, interactive shopping lets consumer custom design products, computers revolutionize art and entertainment, U.S. golfer plays 18 holes in Scotland without leaving home, wheelchair-bound woman lives in palace of virtual reality, China's economy grows to one-quarter of global product and worldwide network means new life for millions.

Continue To Dream

Aug. 1, 2004 - Continue To Dream © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist One of our greatest challenges as human beings is to live life without regret. Now is a chance to rethink the future, to listen to that still, small voice within which has from time to time whispered a dream to your heart. Is there a rustling in your soul, urging "There's something more." What might some of those long-buried dreams be? The Scriptures remind us of the importance of listening to those dreams. "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions" (Joel 2:28; KJV). Thomas Kinkade writes: "When God comes near, wonderful things begin to happen. A dull people become visionary. The timid are given new courage. Old men, who felt that life had passed them by, suddenly feel that God is making them useful once again... But perhaps the greatest gift of all is vision. When we feel the force of some new dream welling up inside of us, we are most alive." Age is no barrier to either dreaming or to achieving. Countless models have shown us the way. Peter mark Roget was first a doctor in the 1800's; only after retirement at the age of 61 did he begin to work on the first edition of his "Thesaurus." It took him 12 years; little did he know that his "little tool" would survive into the next millenium! Grandma Moses started painting at age 80. She created 25 percent of her famous paintings as a centenarian. Michelangelo did some of his best painting when past 80; Goethe wrote when past 80; Edison was still inventing at 92. Frank Lloyd Wright at 90 was considered the most creative architect; Shaw was still writing plays at 90. Furthermore, hardship is no inhibitor of dreaming and achievement. So what dreams might be tugging at the sleeve of your heart right now?... Whatever items compose your list, be done with the excuses. We can no longer blame our past, our parents, or our imperfections. It's time to stop simmering and start cooking!

Cheat The Aging Process

Aug. 8, 2004 - Cheat The Aging Process © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist The following are 10 Age Cheaters that are the secrets to being Fabulous after 50. Faith - in God; believing in eternity keeps you sipping from the fountain of youth. People who have faith and attend worship service regularly live longer and better. Exercise - Use it or lose it! Body-Soul-Mind-Spirit. Attitude - We are what we think. Some of us are growing younger while most of us are growing older. If we work for energy and zeal, expecting life to be rich, full and adventurous, our lives will be a self-fulfilling prophecy. Proper Diet - Eat a daily balanced diet from the Food Guide Pyramid (You can find it on your bread wrapper!). Take one multi-vitamin/multi-mineral dietary supplement daily. Laugh - People who laugh, last! Laughter is a stress buster and lifts both our spirits and our face. It juices the chemical endorphins in the brain that make us feel euphoric. Keep Moving - Get up and go! If you dread growing older because it is a time of deterioration and memory loss, then it will be like that. However, if you use this time to keep moving and growing, you will prescribe for yourself years crackling with excitement and adventure. Look Good - When you look your best, you feel your best and get more positive response from the people with whom you interact. Live in the Now - Live your best Now. Each new day is a new life. Yesterday is a cancelled check. Tomorrow is promissory note. Today is a check. Have fun spending it! RE-LIGHT not RETIRE, RE-SPARK. make your aging life burn with energy and spontaneous combustion. It only takes a spark to get a fire going. Give - You can't outgive God or people. (The above column is an excerpt from Shirley's book "Fabulous after 50™: Finding Fulfillment for Tomorrow.")

Learn To Age - Outside The Box

Aug. 15, 2004 - Learn To Age - "Outside The Box" © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist "Satisfy us in our earliest youth with your loving kindness, giving us joy to the end of our lives." (Psalm 90:14) (TLB)   The popular phrase "Think Outside the Box" gave me the idea to "Age Outside the Box™," living with Power, Style and Vitality. Many over-50 people, with their toes barely inside the new millenium , are discovering ageless living and endless energy. They are neither imprisoned in the past, nor refusing to embrace the present. Aging-outside-the-box™ people do not fear the future but rather capture each moment as an opportunity to learn, to grow, to become increasingly all that they were designed to be. POWER: Think of the people in your life who are aging with power. There is power in living through the Word of God, The Holy Bible. Rev. Rick Warren has taken me and many billions of people deeper into the understanding of having power through the Bible. Hopefully, as we age we enjoy spiritual maturity as we live in God's simple abundance. My stuttering Paw, Paw, (my grandfather), who is now walking the streets of gold, sang with gusto, "There's Power in the Blood," directing the choir of our small church. he did not stutter when he would sing. As a ten-year-old girl, my Paw, Paw put me in his choir. I recall vividly, him turning red in the face as he belted out the song. That song, and my Paw, Paw, implanted forever in my heart and head that the power of the blood of Jesus was above all powers. There is power as many aspects of aging becomes a positive. It is possible after the financial responsibilities of raising a family, an older person may have more financial flexibilty to glorify God. With an empty nest, there is often more self-time and time to enjoy one's passions. It's a good time to get into the career or geographical area of one's choice. STYLE: What style of life has God planted in your DNA? Many times as we age, we flow into the life God has planned for us. My passions are God, family, country, writing, speaking and traveling. I feel I have lived many years to get into my flow of life that feels good in spirit. I am enthusiastic about my style of aging."And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of waters, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper." (Psalm 1:3) (KJV) VITALITY: "And Moses was an hundred and twenty years old when he died: his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated." (Dueteronomy 34:7) (KJV) By the end of this century more people will be over 50 than under in this country. It's important that we "Age Outside the Box™" with power, style and vitality.

Remember To Put First Things First

Aug. 22, 2004 - Remember To Put First Things First © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Before dreaming big as women approach the years of fabulous 50 and beyond, we have to recognize our losses. Life is full of them, especially as we age and it's vital to acknowledge those losses to honor the process of life. Grief is an appropriate emotion as we age. We have lost some things, things even more vital than youth in a culture that worships youth. Noticing is not vanity; it is a reality check and imperative to finding our focus after the age of 50. Creating a list of personal losses may help each of us grieve and then move on. Some possible losses are: loss of loved ones, loss of a beloved home, or personal losses of health, agility, body function and even body parts. Other losses nay be subtle, less obvious to the casual observer of life. Loss may look like a disappointment, broken dreams and disillusionment over our own abilities to be in relationships or to carry out our chosen roles such as wife, mother, friend, and worker. Losses may include mistakes, which have cost us, or another, greatly. Freedom to grieve these losses, to notice and say, "I am sad about this aspect of life, love," grants us the ability to heal and then, ultimately, to refocus our lives. To shift our focus from what we have lost, to who we are becoming and how we will impact the world in our remaining years.

People Of The World Are More Alive Than Different

Aug. 29, 2004 - People Of The World Are More Alive Than Different © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist I felt the pulse of the human spirit as I have enjoyed the opening ceremonies of the 2004 Olympics held in Athens, Greece, which is the only regularly scheduled gathering of the world. Wow! Can you imagine a small country with about as many people as live in Ohio pulling off that kind of extravaganza? Greece, home of the first Olympic games, has surprised the world when it was ready for the opening night of the World Olympic Games 2004. Athenians performed a miracle as the world witnessed the glistening white arches over the main stadium. The spellbinding lighthing of the 2004 Olympic Flame, the marching in of the parade of countries led by Greece, the fabulous performances, the colorful costumes and the sensational music (especially the drums that had the rhythm of a human heart beat) set my heart racing. My conclusion: People of the world are more alike than different! Isn't it a parable that Athens, Greece - the first to host the Olympics - spent $1.5 billion to stop terrorism, but crowned the medal winners with an olive wreath as a symbol of peace?  The competition that I watched profiled and portrayed superhuman strength of body, soul, spirit, discipline and sportsmanship - the elements we strive for in our daily lives. I also experienced the Olympic Spirit at the Ms. Senior Alabama Classic Etowah County Pageant. All eight contestants, Gloria "Jan" Ector-Kelley, Janice Phillips, Ann Boatwright, Mary Bailey, Minnie Nell Smith, Wanda R. Fox, Carol Bonita Link, and Mary B. Young were all winners. Many years of life has polished these sensational over-60 women into jewels that sparkle. The crowned Ms. Senior Alabama Classic, Mary B. Young, shared with the audience the principles by which she lives her life: "Live, love and laugh. Look forward to the future with confidence. When you are faced with decisions, make those decisions as wisely as possible and then go on. Be happy and enjoy what is beautiful. Dance like nobody's watching and love like it is never gonna hurt." Jack London said, "I would rather that my spark would burn out in a brilliant blaze than be stifled by dry rot. I would rather be a superb meteor, every atom of me in magnificent glow, than a sleepy and permenant planet. The proper function of man is to live, not exist."

Today Is Prime Time To ReInvent Yourself

Sept. 5, 2004 - Today Is Prime Time To ReInvent Yourself © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Old, outdated, slow, set in your ways, health risk were words used to describe the generation before us. The new millenium, the 21st century, describes this generation with words like spirit and determination to stay active, vital and engaged in work place and in their personal life. The "Third Age" - that time between primetime midlife and dramatic decline - is an age of liberation when people find that newfound freedom and prolonged good health which provides the opportunity to make their most profound contributions to life. If you are healthy and have zest for life, being 50, 60 or 70 actually does not feel old. Fifty, 60 or 70 year-olds in our society today do not feel or act the same way as the generation before. We consider this time in our lives as prime time. It is the time the real you stands up. It is time to reinvent yourself into that real person inside you. Here are seven ways to reinvent yourself: Take on new challenges by (1) working in fields you really enjoy, (2) staying active mentally, physically, socially and spiritually, (3) following your dream, (4) living in the present (each day is a present from God), (5) being productive, (6) making life a stage, knowing you are the star of your life and (7) putting God on the throne of your life. Do you remember the fable, "Rumplestiltskin" which involved spinning straw into gold? If you feel your older life is straw, try spinning that straw into gold by reinventing yourself.

A Dance Of Change

Sept. 12, 2004 - A Dance Of Change © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Do you remember when a Website was a spider's home? You are considered the older generation if you first think of a rodent when you hear the word mouse. If you told me twenty years ago that I would write this column to you with my hand on a mouse, I would have thought you were from the planet Mars. How amazing that our great postal service is now called "snail mail." My granddaughters from Cincinnati would rather chat via email. When I was a child, RAM referred to a male sheep and a BYTE left teeth prints. Memory was what grandma had lost. Grandchildren handle the computer with great ease, whike we struggle with it. Grandchildren enjoy teaching grandparents the computer. Also computer classes are available. learning the computer is certainly a challenging adventure. Come surf with me the crest of the "Age Wave," into the "Age Age," which is the beach of longevity and creative change. Aging is constant change like shifting shadows. The shades of change can be exciting, magic and fruitful as we focus on the positive side of change. Age may become a building dance of intrigue and new horizons. The kaleidescope of change brings on new vitality. Jesus said in the Living Bible, John 10:10, "My purpose is to give life, in all its fullness." Our world is changing so fast, at times we feel as if our life is in a rocket zooming into outer space.

Create Your Own Uniqueness

Sept. 19, 2004 - Create Your Own Uniqueness © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Sculptor, artist, architect and poet, Michelangelo, the genius of the Renaissance, has been called the greatest artist ever. In 1508, Pope Julius ll summoned Michelangelo to Rome to paint the Sistene Chapel. This titanic task of working alone, painting 340 magnificent biblical figures and scenes on a complex curved surface of about 10,000 square feet took 20 months and made him famous for all time. At his death, Feb. 18, 1564, at 88 years, Michelangelo left a legacy of faith with his life, his work, his passion and his focus, as he moved into his later years, all centered on his faith in God. Though he painted under duress, on his back with painstaking attention to detail and fraught with difficulty, five centuries after his death Michelangelo's art in the Sistene Chapel in Rome, Italy is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of history. You, as a successful ager, possessing your own God-given uniqueness will leave your footprints on the sands of time. The key to greatness is uniqueness: (1) The road to failure is doing the routine. (2) Thnk the opposite of the norm, find another angle. (3) Associate ideas of others. (4) extremes. (5) exaggeration. (6) doing the unusal. (7) doing the unexpected. We have all the tools necessary for a work of genius - the canvas (our life), the gifts, the time, the energy. What will your life's colors be? Will the effects of your choices extend beyond your last breath (the last stroke of your brush) ? Who will benefit from your canvas of contributions to the world? What are those contributions? Paint your picture of aging as Michelangelo. Faith is the paint that will make your aging picture glow with light and exciting color.

Keep A Fresh Attitude And Life Feels Fresh

Sept. 26, 2004 - Keep A Fresh Attitude And Life Feels Fresh © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist In the more recent past, I sat down with Jessica Schreiber, author of an article, "How Nifty is 50?" for the Godly Business Woman magazine. We agreed people all across the globe will celebrate 50 years of life in 2002. We came to the conclusion that being age 50 is in vogue! These 50 year olds are enjoying "wow" for life and becoming comfortable in their own skin. A few years ago, I interviewed one of the leading black southern writers, Dori Sanders, author of "Clover" and "Her Own Place." When Dori isn't writing, or speaking, she operates a large peach farm in York County, S.C. She and her staff grow watermelons and vegetables to sell in Sanders' Peach Shed, her family's open-produce stand. Dori said, "I don't think in terms of how old I am. I usually think of what has to be done and if it is possible for me to do it ." I asked, "How do you have such a fresh approach to life?" She answered in South Carolina accent, "Each new day is a fresh for me. I work in fresh air, with fresh produce. Each new day gives me a new outlook and fresh approach to life." Another person I met, Maddy Kent Dychtwald, Vice-President of Age Wave Inc., believes "50 is the best age, a time you've been striving for all your life. The marriage of experience and maturity should lead to an enriched life."

Get A Handle On What's Eating You

Oct. 3, 2004 - Get A Handle On What's Eating You © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist This was written with Dr. Debra K. Goodwin, Ph.D.,R.D., a registered dietician who teaches nutrition at Jacksonville State University in Alabama. Paramount to fitness is a balanced diet. Many women live as if eating were abnormal. Our society's emphasis on extreme thinness has forced some individuals to seriously curtail intake of valuable nutrients which disastrously affect health and definitely influence vitality. Building a fit body begins on the inside. A self-assured look isn't all attitude. A woman stands tall only as a natural response from strong bones. Top 10 Eat-Right Stratagies... Remember eating is normal behavior. if you are eating for emotinal comfort, or from stress, try journaling to get a handle on what's eating you ! The fresher the food, the closer to its original form, the better it is for you ! Don't skip breakfast ! Small meals keep energy levels more constant ! Limit. don't eliminate: Don't cut out foods you love; just limit the quantities. If it sounds too good to be true ("lose 50 pounds by Tuesday! Guaranteed!"), it probably is ! Special diets that focus on a particular food group or type of food do ot promote balance in eating ! Moderation is the key in most things. Eating is no exception ! Start with something simple. Drink lots of water (We know you know this) ! Be realstic. Don't try to revamp your entire dietary lifestyle this week !

Aging, Greatness Are Untapped Gold Mines

Oct. 10, 2004 - Aging, Greatness Are Untapped Gold Mines © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Within every aging person there lies hidden wealth. Like an unmined shaft, personal depths are teaming with nuggets of golden greatness. But, having the potential for extraordinary achievement that results in the fulfulling experience of satisfaction isn't enough. The nuggets must be mined, brought to the surface, taken through the fires of adversity and polished to their peak of brilliance. Aging people who have discovered this untapped gold mine have torn the archaic veil of covering from them and opened the window of light to find a prevailing pattern, too long hidden under a defeatist attitude. Once an aging person has discovered the common thread of potential that runs through winners, he can tap into it. When a person does, it can forge a pristine path toward fulfillment, happiness, health and a rewarding state of satisfaction beyond his wildest dreams. It can produce a positive difference in the life of aging America. An aging person who has good health is confident, a hard worker and has a postive dream for the future, will enjoy successful aging and a productive life. This person will not fear age, but use the wisdom it gives to live the good life and gain peace, prosperity and power. TV personality, Barbara Walters is a bolt of encouragement streaking across the American Aging Society. Walters takes command as a participant on "block buster" special television programs, interviews and debates. She never loses her regal composure no matter how much pressure is exerted. She interviews those who have been tough in the past. She does her homework and never falls apart. With that, her words express deep streams of thought. She packages herself for success. She makes the most of her poise and beauty. She uncorks the magic of confidence. Confidence is a star quality for aging people. It is the starch that allows aging people to stand up and take control of their lives. Aging and greatness go hand in hand. The mature years are filled with wisdom, wit and strong will.

Life Stage More Important To Consider

Oct. 17, 2004 - Life Stage More Important To Consider © by Shirley Mitchell, Colimnist My home state of Alabama puts on a dazzling show during the Fall season. God takes his brush and paints the leaves vibrant scarlet, deep purple, sunshine yellow and glowing orange. The landscape is postcard beautiful. Just as the autumn of the year splashes bright colors everywhere, so does the autumn of life. Step out from the dab dryness of late summer to the color, panache and wonder of this extraordinary life season! Joseph Antonini, past chairman and CEO of K-Mart Corporation said, "Life stage is more important than age!" I hope you enjoy this poem I wote: Grow Older Without Getting Old...by Shirley Mitchell... The "Age Wave" is here, that no one will deny, The older crowd is growing , it's our time to fly. Exercise is the golden egg that will reverse this aging, We walk, we jog, we Jazzersize to keep our energy raging. With proper diet and attitude we golden oldies believe, We retard the ravages of age, gravity and disease. Jumping into the sea of aging with wild anticipation, Exhilaration, excitement and adventure will be our reputation. What's our secret for getting older without getting old? Positive thinking and enthusiasm is the oldest secret ever told. Jesus is the answer as we walk this earthly road. We're only getting better, we're not getting old.

Surrender To An Ageless Beauty

Oct. 24, 2004 - Surrender To An Ageless Beauty © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist During a recent trip to the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, I talked with Kim Murray who is owner and founder of Vision Media International of Modesto (California). Here is what he asked me to share with my readers: "The spirit within us is ageless. It does not grow old like our body. You can remain young in spirit regardless of your age for the real you is ageless. Our spirit is ageless and the Holy Spirit is ageless. There is no age in the spirit, there is no illness or deterioration; ageless. "We can choose to let our spirit be a flame with the vibrancy of life or we can let it be squelched and encumbered by the depressive, negative things around us. We can choose our emotional and mental attitude. And we must, because it will dominate, control and influence our lives and our behavior. It's not the circumstances we face that determines our attitude. It's our attitude that often determines our circumstances. It's how we choose to respond or react to circumstances that determine our dispostion and place in life."Our spirit can be aflame and free when our soul is surrounded by a positive mental attitude. A positive mental attitude thrives when surrounded by what is morally and physically clean, wholesome and pure. "What is old, but that which is negative, cynical and faithless; that which has been stained and strained with bitterness, deceit and unforgivness? "You can never go forward looking back anymore than you can plow a straight furrow looking back or driving a car staring in the rear vision mirror." You must let go of the past in order to have power in the present and faith in the future.

Halloween Is A Day To Play

Oct. 31, 2004 - Halloween Is A Day To Play © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Being grown up and mature, we are in our prime to enjoy Halloween anyway we choose. Giving treats to grandchildren, neighbor, and friend's will probably have top priority. Of course creativity with costumes, decorating, entertaining, and pulling pranks will add variety to life. Just what is Halloween? How did it originate? Centuries ago, before Christianity became a part of Ireland; the Celts celebrated New Years Eve the last night of October. Historians think Halloween started toward the end of the 19th century when the Irish immigrants arrived. The Celts celebrated a festival called Sambain meaning "the end of summer." The Celts believed on this night that the powers of evil came out to celebrate their power over good. People would put out sweets and other good things to eat to placate the evil spirits. Many would diguise themselves and roam the countryside. The Catholic Church, back in the eighth century A.D. declared the first day of November, All SAINTS DAY. However the tradition arose for the present Halloween Holiday, it has become a big time to play in America. Shopping in the retail stores, we realize how commercialized this holiday has become. Children become excited about dressing up in costume and trick or treating for candy and gifts. America enjoys a holiday and a chance to celebrate. Halloween is a great time for the Fabulous after 50™ to pretend, play, enjoy children, and eat candy.

Fight Fear Of Old Age By Living The Moment

Nov. 7, 2004 - Fight Fear Of Old Age By Living The Moment © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Father Time and Mother Nature do not sentence us to old age. Living old is a choice, and so is living young.The attitude that each new day is a special gift will keep us sipping from the fountain of youth. Baby boomers are part of the "carpe diem" generation, seizing the day. Every morning we are handed a package of 1, 440 new, unused minutes to be spent in the manner we choose. At the end of the day those minutes are gone forever. We cannot bank them, save them, or carry them over to the next day. "Each day is a new life," sang gorgeous, radiant Miss Alabama, Kim Wimmer in 1993. The opportunities of today will never be repeated. So, walk through every door with enthusiasm. A great way to start the day at first awareness after a good night's sleep is to resolve, "This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." (Psalm 118:24). In infinite wisdom, the Creator gives us only one moment at a time. That's all we can handle! In the hourglass, one grain of sand slips through the narrow waist of the glass at a time. As the moments turn into days, the sands of time create, like sand in an oyster, the perfect chance to make each day a pearl. At the end of our lives, if we live them fully, what a glowing strand of pearls we'll have! Successful living and happy aging require we live in the present and for the future rather than dwell on losses.

Advancements Redefine Aging

Nov. 21, 2004 - Advancements Redefine Aging © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Looking down the corridor of the 21st century, scientific advancements have redefined the meaning of aging. Now we know - we use it or lose it and must train the brain that aging need not be negative. One mentor lived a sensational life, living past the time when most would have given up. Moses had just cleared his sixties and was close to 70 when God called him away from his second career of shepherd, and into his new vocation of tending a million and a half slaves and being part of  the genius plan to set them free. It was a quiet journey. "And Moses was 120 years old when he died, his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated." (Deuteronomy 34:7 KJV) Dr. Walter M. Bortz ll, author of "Dare to be 100," and past president of the American Geriatrics Society, believes we are designed by our Creator to live full of days for 120 years or 1 billion hours. Watching the "Oprah" show on age-defying breakthroughs confirmed my belief that this is the best time in history to be Fabulous after 50™. Oprah is 50 years young. She said, "I'm selling 50. It's rejuvenating and exhilarating!" She is young inside and out. Oprah said, "Doing what you love youngs you up! Have a passion for what you do, and be with people you have a passion for. Take care of yourself first. If the well is empty, there is nothing to give out." Several years ago, Dr. Ken Dychtwald instructed Age Wave Conference attendees that we must live a healthier lifestyle - or have one big nursing home in the United States. Exercise will help us live young and avoid wheelchairs and nursing homes. Exercise results in better health, more strength, stamina, power and energy in minimum time. Exercise will put a smile on our face and a spring in our walk, no matter our age. The best exercise is the one you will do! A fit body cannot be purchased, but it can be earned. It takes knowledge of nutrition, exercise, discipline, time, and hard work Too often, we reap the results of poor self-care from our earlier years and what we consider to be aging is actually disuse.

Top 10 Female Strategies

Nov. 28, 2004 - Top 10 Female Strategies © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist The following is a list of the Top 10 Female Strategies: Even though no one talks about it anymore, find out what colors work best on you. You'll never be sorry. After that, start at the top, with hair face shape and work your way down. What lines work best, where? Figure out where you need to create width or height, and which styles can do that for you. Measure your widest points and determine not to end lines at those points. Clean out your closets and then reorganize them by color and type of clothing item. Go to your favorite make-up counter and get a makeover. Be sure to ask for free samples. Looking good gives the God who created you all the glory. Who needs dowdy? Just because someone else is wearing it, doesn't mean you must, also. Style is defined by your life, your passion and your personality - not by emaciated and grim-faced models on the runway. Body changes are inevitable and no one has a perfect body (Marilyn Monroe was a size 14.) Stop pining away for the body you once had, or never had, or wish you had, and get on with taking care of the one you're currently inhabitating. When you know you look your best, you're free to forget yourself and focus on others. Remember to be 50ish, female, and fabulous, I will make the most of my best! This is the attitude for aging successfully! (This is an excerpt from Shirley Mitchell's book, Fabulous after 50™.)

Millenium Moments

Dec.5, 2004 - Millenium Moments © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Living the first four years of the new millenium has been a thrill. Like many of you, I kept a diary which I called Millenium Moments. It gives me great pleasure to share some of those special thoughts. A threefold approach to life in the new millenium - remembering the past, imagining the future, and celebrating the present - gives momentum and ongoing life balance. In a world that views aging as a wobbly proposition, being Fabulous after 50™ requires balance. Gaining inspiration from the past, while expanding on personal dreams for the future, gives the present a charm and a magical feeling of possiblities. It helps me fight the battle of dull; keeps me from giving up; or carving in to the prevalent and pessimistic views of aging. Della Reese, star of the TV show, "Touched by an Angel," presents a beautiful example of the past forming our present. She told Parade Magazine, "Everything that has happened to me has made me the woman I am today. I like that person. I respect her. She's courageous and honest." We are definitely a composite of all the experiences of our life-to-date. Not only does this shape us now, it empowers us to become all we are created to be for the future. Sometimes we forget to envision the future - forget that we have the freedom to design our own lives with the help of the Holy Spirit as director. Since we have elected a president, I would like to share a quote from Bob Moore, from his book, "You Can be President." "Today I am not afraid; I feel confident toward myself and what I can accomplish. I am president: president of my thoughts, president of my actions, president of my reactions and president of the quality of my work - I am president of my life. "As president, I am free to carry out any type of administration I wish - good, average. poor. However, I know that what I give to my adminstration determines what life gives me in return - not luck or fate. Whatever my actions, I can expect the same type of reaction from the world in return. "In the past I have been like the average person and used only 10 percent of my potential and ability; 90 percent of what I can be and do is still inside me begging to be used! "Today I will handle well all the situations that I face because I will use more of the untapped potential and ability that I possess. "I am somebody. I am the president of my life. Mine will be a good adminstration. I have potential! I have ability! I am delighted to invite you into my Millenium Moments, truths and hope condensed from a year where I wrestled with my past, dreamt about and planned for my future, and accepted the gift of the present.

Christmas Is For Kids From 1 To 120

Dec. 12, 2004 - Christmas Is For Kids From 1 To 120 © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist As we count the days to Jesus's Birthday, set the child free in yourself. A big part of a child's life is play. As adults we must make play a part of the menu of life. Insights come to us when we play. To set the child inside you free and let that child play will enhance the quality of your life during this precious Christmas season. What is being childlike? A child has no perception of time. A child lives in the now. A child sees the immediacy of the moment. A child is intense, uncritical, does one thing at a time, is spontaneous, is simplistic and honest. Children bring love into our hearts at Christmas. Love is constructive energy. Jesus said, "Suffer little children and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven." As you enjoy the children in your life this Christmas, stare at life. Stare at the tree, remembering trees represent the continuance of life. The red decorations on the green tree symbolize the blood of Jesus shed for our eternal life. Stare at the children dancing gleefully around the decorated tree filled with presents. Listen and enjoy the Spirit uplifting sounds of Christmas music as it fills the air waves of our homes, churches, shopping malls, cars and theaters. The angelic voices of children singing fills our soul to overflowing with joy. Giving is a way of life at Christmas. These days are so full of good cheer, we feel like children. We experience the love and magic of Christmas. The anticipation of Christmas gives us a childlike view of life. Half the fun is the preparing for the greatest celebration of the year. The birth of Baby Jesus. Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season to all!

Christmas Is A Blessed Season

Dec. 19, 2004 - Christmas Is A Blessed Season © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist This is your Christmas Season to enjoy - a time to celebrate life. Jesus is the reason for the season. We experience Christmas through the cradle, cross and crown. The cradle in Bethlehem held the baby that is the hope of the world. The cross symbolizes the death and resurrection of Christ that gave meaning to His birth. The crown gives hope of Christ's return as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The magic of Christmas is felt in many, many ways. Christmas carols float through my home all during the season. I get an inspirational shock of electricity when I visit any church in the area for the Christmas Cantata. I love the Christmas specials on television. The radio airwaves are full of good cheer! Trees are significant during the Christmas season. Trees represent the continuance of life. The Bible tells us "The trees of the Lord are full of sap; the cedars of Lebanon which He hath planted." The cedar stays green all year. Our tradition of red decorations on the green tree started with the Germans. They put red apples on their Paradise tree to symbolize the blood of Jesus shed for our eternal life. The lights on the tree representing Jesus as the light of the world. I love to see the reflection of the Christmas lights in the eyes of beautiful children. We give, we sing, we decorate, we dress festive, eat sumptous food, laugh, love and enjoy. Christmas gives each of us a warm, fuzzy feeling - a feeling of hope of eternal life.

Home Is Where The Heart Is

Dec. 26, 2004 - Home Is Where The Heart Is © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist I decorated my home for the celebration of Christmas with great zeal. I found myself putting extra thought and labor into deep cleaning and clearing away clutter. Working my way through the house cleaning and decorating, I have precious memories of years gone by when I placed the special ornaments that were collected through the years on the Christmas tree. Reminiscing over Christmas pictures back through the years was great fun. I felt fine, on cloud nine, as I made the holiday menu, being careful to include everyone's favorite dish. Shopping for food was a breeze and setting the Christmas table weeks in advance to make the celebration special reaffirmed my passion for the season. I feel a song in my heart as I anticipate the gathering of my three children, their spouses, and my seven grandchildren. The house, once again, becomes a beehive filled with laughter, conversation, feasting and hugs. Growing older gives a desire to make the place you live your own special place. We have different needs at mid-life. For some, downsizing the empty nest - for others, a move to a warmer climate. But, when children gather at Christmas, home is where the heart is. Looking toward the future, it is smart to plan for older years of comfort, celebrating the fabulous you, while enjoying the last half of life. making plans for the celebration of my clan, I thought of Job 5:25 from The Living Bible: "Your sons shall become important men; your descendants shall be as numerous as grass! "You shall live a long, good life; like standing grain, you'll not be harvested until it's time! "I have found from experience that all of this is true. "For your own good, listen to my counsel."

Have A Happy New Year

Jan. 2, 2005  - Have A Happy New Year © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist "Behold I make all things new." Revelations 21:5 We are about to step into a new year! For most of us it is a time of reflection, a time of renewal. Garson Kanin said, "Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art." The Fabulous after 50™ people will build on our 50 plus years of experience and knowledge to live life large, while we focus in 2005 on the passion God has planted within us. Remember, Jesus was "clad with zeal as a cloak." Dr. Phil, on The Today Show, told Matt Lauer, "We generate the life we are thinking." The baby boomers (those born between 1946-1964) are changing the way we think about aging. Whether retired, starting a new career, or taking time for leisure, the goal is to stay mentally active, physically active, and to remain productive and useful. God has a positive attitude about aging. His love letter to us from His Holy Word says: "Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a Godly life." Proverbs 16:31 "The glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old." Proverbs 20:29 "I will be your God throughout your lifetime - until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you." Isaiah 46:4 "Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged." Proverbs 17:6 "Show your fear of God by standing up in the presence of elderly people and showing respect of the aged. I am the Lord." Leviticus 19:32 "The Godly will flourish like palm trees and grow strong like the cedars of Lebanon. For they are transplanted into the Lord's own house. They flourish in the courts of our God. Even in old age they will still produce fruit; they will remain vital and green." Psalm 92:13-14  Our youth-obsessed society may have the mind set not to cherish the older people; however, God thinks older people are precious. Happy New Year!

Faith, Values Were Red Hot Topics In 2004

Jan. 9, 2005 - Faith, Values Were Red Hot Topics In 2004 © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist From the box office at the movies to the ballot box at the voting polls, 2004 screamed faith and values. Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" gave us hope as we watched the crimson blood of Jesus Christ flow freely on the screen. We understood from viewing the movie that His blood covered our sins and gave us hope of eternal life.From the White House, we were bombarded through the media with our President, George W. Bush's verbal proclamations concerning his strong faith and values. He and Laura live the Christian life. The words, "red hot" denote spirit, passion and power. The red states dotting the map of the United States gave U. S. citizens passion for the leader of the free world, who leads with faith, values and virtue. The "red hot" Boston Red Sox baseball team captured the World Series Championship. We observed on our television screens the "red hot" passion and power of this team. Stepping over the threshold of 2005, Americans are reaching out to the victims of war and the deadly Tsunamis with "red hot" passionate hearts. This is one of those defining moments when hard times draw us closer to our Creator.

Resolve In The New Year To Celebrate 50

Jan. 16, 2005 - Resolve In The New Year To Celebrate 50 © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Once you were a young whipper-snapper. How about now? Are you an I-take-a-napper? Do you hold onto your youth so tightly you get cramps in your hands? On this road of life, have you turned down wrinkle street and into the driveway of middle-age bulge? Celebrating this time of middle-age change, let's think more about what we gain and not the losses. Sure, you may have lost hair, waistline, and some memory, but gained self time, wisdom, and a new appreciation of life. If you watch Oprah on television, you will notice she is celebrating her 50th year of life. She has verbalized on her show this is the best time of her life. On the cover of her January 2005 magazine, there are two pictures of her, one in a work-out suit, and the other in an evening dress. The caption reads, "from working out to stepping out." If you're ready to celebrate life, January 2005, set goals for lifestyle changes that are attainable and feasible. Make sure your new goals are rewarding and will make your life better. In the Bible, Levticus 25, the Lord told Moses on Mount Sinai to inform the people of Israel each seventh year should be a Sabbath and they should allow the land rest. After seven of these Sabbaths (49 years), the fiftieth year should be a jubilee. "A jubileee shall that 50th year be unto you..." (Lev. 25:11 KJV) A good New Year's resolution for the 50 and over is to make this year a jubilee. A time of rejoicing.

Praising God Yields A Brighter Appearance

Jan. 23, 2005 - Praising God Yields A Brighter Appearance © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist "I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live. Life is no brief candle for me. It is a splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations." - George Bernard Shaw Knowing and praising God makes 50-Plus people delightfully different. Praise brings with it enormous benefits. Praise is an age-buster, perhaps the greatest beauty secret of all time. Praise lifts our face and faith, our spirit, our attitude and even our step! Praise defies the natural tendency to move downward both in firmness and in feature - praise puts a smile on our face and laughter in our heart. One benefit of praising God is exchanging a spirit of heaviness for a garment of praise. The Prophet Isaiah gives us the message that Jesus came "To appoint unto them the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called the trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified" (Isaiah 61:3 KJV) Unwavering confidence in God leads to a spontaneous attitude of gratitude and praise, whatever the circumstances. Paul E. Billheimer said, "Praise is the spark plug of faith." We can pray with the Psalmist, "Praise be to the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone does marvelous deeds. Praise be to His glorious name for ever, may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen" (Psalm 72:18-19 NIV). "Affirmation is vital in intimate relationships, and none more so than in our relationship with the Lord. The Scriptures call forth praise from the people for the person of God," writes Jane Rubietta in her book, Quiet Places. Thus, when we praise God we are exulting in His characteristics, such as His steadfast love, His quick forgiveness, His Holiness, His knowledge, presence and power. We also praise God when we thank him for His mighty activity in our lives, for working behind the scenes, tirelessly, to assure that all things work together for each of us. Bringing all these praises to mind lifts us up to heaven! Praise the Lord! Praise puts us in the arena of God's presence; but sin separates us from God.

Take Time To Remodel Your Life

Jan. 30, 2005 - Take Time To Remodel Your Life © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist The excitement of remodeling a house that has become out-modeled, inconvenient, and unserviceable, adds zest to life. Our lives could be compared to our homes. As we become older and wiser we realize that certain areas need tearing out and rebuilding. Workmen who remodel our homes start with a strong new foundation for a new wing. Adding a new wing to our lives requires a strong foundation of faith.Carpenters may tear out walls that have been weakened by termites or age to be replaced by new walls. There are times when the walls of our lives have been eaten by termites of busyness, mediocrity or complacency and must be replaced by new boards of excellance, enthusiasm and wise use of precious time. When windows age and get clouded, they are replaced by new ones. Remodeling our lives involves putting new windows in the rooms filled with hate, frustration and selfishness to allow the warm sunlight of God's love beam inside. The roof is a big project when remodeling a house. Throwing away the old shingles of insecurity, fear, and hopelessness, then replacing with new ones, faith, hope, love and peace will make life feel new. When the house is remodeled, we take good pieces of furniture, refurbish, polish and shine each one. We probably add a few pieces. As we age we must refurbish, polish, shine old skills and add new ones. God the master planner has the power to remodel our aging lives into beauty and charm. "By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established, through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures." (Proverbs 24:3-4 NIV) "Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age, they shall be fat and flourishing." Psalms 92: 13-14 KJV

Joy Is A Body, Soul And Spirit Builder

Feb. 6, 2005 - Joy Is A Body, Soul And Spirit Builder © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist The Jan. 17 special issue of  Time Magazine, in the article, 'The Science of Happiness," the question is asked, "Does God want us to be happy?" Paul tells us in the Bible, "Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, rejoice." Philippians 4:4 (KJV) Jesus teaches his disciples the beatitudes of happiness in Matthew 5:1-12. Scientists today tell us joyful, happy, positive people live longer. When we are joyful, endorphins (a chemical produced by the brain) promotes pleasure when producing a natural high, and lowers pain. The other chemical, dopamine, is produced when we are happy, thrilled, euphoric, exhuberant, and it reinforces feeling of joy. Fabulous after 50™ people focus more on joy than material things, success or negative thinking. At mid-life, more attention is being given to living large, enjoying a relationship with Jesus, loving and having closeness in our families, following our bliss, spending time listening to music, letting the child play, traveling, dancing, being exhuberant over sports, and interacting with art. The Jan. 25 edition of USA Today ran an article on Alzheimer prevention in which it stated, "The best Alzheimer's prevention might be this simple: Go have fun." Robert Louis Stevenson said, "There is no duty we so much underrate as the duty of being happy. By being happy, we sow anonymous benefits upon the world."

February Is A Time For Love

Feb. 13, 2005 - February Is A Time For Love © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist "As the smallest light beam is but a reflection of the light and heat that are the sun, so all truth and all love have their origin in God. Love, indeed, makes the world go round - and takes it back to its ultimate source, which is God." - Rev. Fulton J. Sheen We celebrate Valentines Day Feb. 14, by sending greeting cards, called valentines, to sweethearts, friends, and family. Celebrations of love abound with candlelight dinners, dance floors filled with lovers, and great family feasts. Red is the dominate color - red roses, red boxes of chocolates, and red gift packages, add zing to the party of love. A French novelist, Victor Hugo, said, "What a grand thing to be loved! What a grander thing still, to love!" The focus on love this month will give each of us a smile, a warm cozy feeling, and a reason to celebrate. God is Love! Happy Valentines' Day! It's a Season of Love.

Courageous Aging - Making Those Dreams Come True

Feb. 20, 2005 - Courageous Aging - Making Those Dreams Come True © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist "A person doesn't spring into existence at the age of 50; there are years of preparation, which God uses in ways we may never know..." Corrie ten Boom "Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future." (Prov. 31:25 NAS) Age is no barrier to either dreaming or to achieving. Countless models have shown us the way. Peter Mark Roget was first a Doctor in the 1800's; only after retirement at the age of 61 did he begin to work on the first edition of his 'Thesaurus." It took him 12 years; little did he know that "his little tool" would survive into the next millenium! Grandma Moses started painting at age 80. She created 25 percent of her famous paintings as a centenarian. Furthermore, hardship is no inhibitor of dreaming and achievement: "When a man is determined, what can stop him? Cripple him and you have a Sir Walter Scott. Put him in a prison cell and you have a John Bunyon. Bury him in the snows of Valley Forge and you have a George Washington. Have him born in abject poverty and you have a Lincoln. Put him in the grease pit of a locomotive roundhouse and you have a Walter P. Chrysler. Make him second fiddle in an obscure South African orchestra and you have a Toscanini. The hardships of life are sent not... to crush, but to challenge." That was from Reader's Digest, April 1995, page 33. So what dreams might be tugging at the sleeve of your heart right now? Perhaps your dream list looks like a different job, or further schooling, selling the farm (or buying a farm!), starting your own business, backpacking in the Andes, learning to dance or swim or speak a different language. Whatever items compose your list, be done with excuses. It's time to stop simmering and start cooking!

A 'Fabulous After 50™' Person Should Wear A Smile

Feb. 27, 2005 - A 'Fabulous After 50™' Person Should Wear A Smile © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist What should a Fabulous after 50™ person wear? A smile! A smile is the very best facelift. We all benefit from a face lift, and this one is painless, non-invasive and free. The corners of the mouth, curved upward with a pleasant expression on the face, gives a favorable, approachable appearance. To appear cheerful cloaks the face with youth dew. Thinking a smile all the time will keep your face youthful. The laugh lines around the eyes move upward as the sparkle of the eyes beam radar rays of happiness to the world. A big smile moves the face muscles, lips, eyes, even the ears, upward. A perfect face lift! "Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been," said Samuel Clemens. When a smile turns into a ha, ha, hee hee and a ho ho, endorphines juice the brain to promote a natural high, signaling the brain that life is good. The Bible tells us that laughter is the best medicine. The evidence proves that nature installed laughing software into our body to help nurture and keep it healthly. A smile is contagious. The line of a song, "Smile and the whole world smiles with you," is so true. Try walking up the street with a huge smile on your face. Watch as the people meeting you on the other side of the street turn on their own smiles. A smile lifts the spirit. "Mirror mirror on the wall, who's the fairest of them all?" The mirror will invariably answer, "The Fabulous after 50™ person with a smile." Stand in front of a mirror. Look at your natural face and smile BIG. Do you see the face lift? Here's what Wilbur Nesbit said about a smile: "It's full of worth and goodness too, Manly kindness lent, It's worth a million dollars. And it doesn't cost a cent." The logo for the fast food chain of Hardees is a little smiling star and is definitely a spirit-lifter. Recently, eating a famous Hardees biscuit while sitting in my car in the parking lot, I observed a lady whom I knew had recently widowed. Walking into Hardees she looked sad; however, when she returned to her car she had a smile on her face, swinging a smiling star paper bag filled with breakfast. So, smile, you're on candid camera!

Let The Child Within You Play

Mar. 6, 2005 - Let The Child Within You Play © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Perhaps one group that most shouts "Celebration," is the Red Hat Society. When we get to be Fabulous after 50™, we have a desire to belong and in the Red Hat Society, everyone belongs. It's a friendship club, travel club, support system and laugh factory. The only requirement is to have fun, because the club is all about fun and friendship after 50. In her book, "The Red Hat Society," Sue Ellen Cooper, founder, tells how she formed the group. Even its origins are festive. While visiting Tuscon, Ariz., with her husband, she bought a red fedora in a thrift shop. Weeks later, for her friend Linda Murphy's birthday, she gave her a joke gift - a cute red bowler. Cooper included a copy of Jenny Joseph's poem, "Warning," which begins: "When I am an old woman, I shall wear purple, with a red hat which doesn't go, and doesn't suit me." The gift was such a hit, her friends expected it when they turned 50. The next they knew, they were shopping for purple dresses and red hats. In April 1998, Sue Ellen and her friends wore their purple dresses and red hats to a tea room inside the Springfield Banquet Center. The group of friends named Sue Ellen Queen Mother for thinking of such a fun party. So much fun, that Queen Mother and her friends knew they would celebrate life in this manner again. At that tea room, this group became the Red Hat Society. Through email and cell phone, the news of the Red Hat Society got around. When the Orange County Register placed the Red Hat Society on the front page, it was picked up by the major wire services and the Red Hat Society became a household word in America. Sue Ellen writes, "All people need a place to belong, a place where they feel they fit in without trying to hard. The Red Hat Society aspires to be such a place for the increasing number of women who are entering mid-life determined to savor every minute of their existence. Will we manage to change the world? Maybe. Maybe not. But we know we will manage to make some changes in our own lives. We are not done!" Neither are my readers. In fact, we are just beginning a new voyage into a new season, filled with excitement and verve, wow and wonder, new horizons, and thrilling returns on our investment in life. Life is good. We are royalty. Let's celebrate! Fifty is fabulous.

The Storms Of Aging In Our Lives

Mar. 13, 2005 - The Storms Of Aging In Our Lives © by Shirley Mitchell, Columnist Are the storms of aging producing sky-high waves from the sea of life, waves that threaten to capsize you? One way to stop the raging waves of aging is to make each day a holiday and each minute banquet. This sounds like the principle of renewal to me. We feast by letting God renew us day by day, calming the age wave, as we choose our heart's focus. Consider the words from the Book of Life. "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." (2 Corinthians 5:1 NIV) A new day is dawning. Let your heart be encouraged. When the storms of life hit you (and they will slap the sides of your boat, splashing into your life) never waver, pray for sea legs and hold only the captain's wheel. Jesus is the One who quiets the sea, who bids the storms to hush. Stand firm in Him and His power. During our golden, graying years we must keep moving from life to life, watching for the sunrise even in the darkest night, waiting for the calm that comes inevitably after the storm. The Rev. Grady Nutt, formerly of television's "Hee-Haw," spoke a few years ago at a banquet in Cullman. His topic was "Live Every Day Like It Would Be Your Last." He practiced what he preached. Flying home that night, his small plane crashed. God took the Rev. Nutt to his heavenly home. Heaven is the only certainty for our future. Life on this earth is fragile as a flower. The darkness and despair will wilt it. The sunshine of joy will make it bloom.