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Are you living in the moment - or are you living according to an outdated “script” from the past?

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Why is it that we are obsessed with age?

Actually, let me rephrase that. Why is that it we are obsessed with YOUTH?

This weekend, there was a “trade show” in Toronto called “The New You Show”. It was being billed as “North America’s Largest Cosmetic Enhancement, Anti-Aging Show.” When I saw an ad for it - I had to stop and re-read it. Yes, an entire weekend-long event dedicated to pretending you are younger than you actually are!

Now perhaps I am alone in feeling that this obsession with youth is a bit odd. Personally, as someone who was told that he would be lucky to make it to the age of 30, I take great pride in each and every grey hair that appears in my beard. For me, the issue isn’t so much how young you look, but rather how young you feel. And I’m of the opinion that how you look is a direct result of how you feel.

I was really tempted to attend the “The New You Show” for no other reason than to ask the attendees, exhibitors and presenters one simple question: “At what age is it OK to actually look your age?” Do these people plan to live to be 95 but still have the world convinced that they are no older than 69?

My suspicion is that our society’s obsession with youth stems from a direct result of our fear of dying. After all, the young (and the young-looking) are going to live forever, because dying is for the elderly. Isn’t that the way we think? Will a chemical peel, stomach-stapling and liposuction really fool the grim reaper?

This week, I want you to spend a few minutes looking closely at your face in the mirror. I don’t want you to think about how you used to look when you were younger and I don’t want you to think about how old or tired you may look now. In fact, I am making it a rule that each time you are looking at your face in the mirror this week, you MUST be smiling! Simply take a moment to appreciate how far you’ve come and give thanks for the journey thus far!

ENJOY NOW!

“Health nuts” are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
- Redd Foxx