I'm a bit older, but feeling your poetic concern. Not as harsh as the real thing, but an encouraging note to those who would want to challenge, with impossible bucket lists of things they didn't do when they had the ability. Now risking it all, just to prove that they can do it without harm to body or soul.

I certainly have cut back a great deal. But, thanks to the Internet, I have more acquaintances (my real friends of forever are dying off) and as a result of assistive technology, my fertile mind is writing more stories than ever at a pace I can hardly keep up with.

But you're right, at some point, I will have to stop writing novels that inspire me to write more and start writing fewer short stories and comments here. At least, shorter ones… My apologies for this long one that struck me so at home.

Ron

"Slow down." Indeed. Have been doing so of late myself. The gradual loss of physical strength, verve, and resilience can be a real challenge, and at times frustrating. Especially when your mind wants to do something physical your body says no to. Thank God the mind can remain creatively intelligent during the decline, especially when it's nourished properly. Good advice. Thanks for sharing. r