Ticket 2 Ride

When I get older losing my hair
Many years from now
Will you still be sending me a Valentine
Birthday greetings bottle of wine

Written by Paul McCartney when he was just 16 years old. Quite a mature view from a teenager in Liverpool, England. In case you are wondering, Paul still has most of his hair, he’s beyond 64, and he’s loved, by millions.

So, what happens to us mere mortals when we reach that number? I am finding out. In a few days, I become 64. Holy shit, how did that happen?

I was 10 years old when Sgt. Pepper was released. I could not imagine being 64 years old. I still cannot imagine reaching that age.

It is easy to feel reflective on occasions like a birthday, particularly in the last third of your life. Enjoy the sunsets, but look forward to the sunrise.

Half my life ago, I had the chance to refocus and move my life in a new direction. I had no idea where I was headed, but I think I got there. Thankfully, I had some help. These four lads were high school friends.

Thirty-two years later, interesting how none of us have changed a bit. Perhaps a bit more distinguished.

When I was a kid, 64 was ancient, one foot in the grave. I wouldn’t go so far to say the 60s are the new 40s, but these aren’t your grandparents’ 60s. Talk about lifestyle and quality of life improvements. Yes, we live longer on average, have better medical care and more wealth in our later years.

At 64, you don’t have to be a fuddy-duddy, or a photo model for “American Gothic.” Maybe you won’t look like Dolly Parton or George Hamilton, or even Sir Paul, but seniors focus more on nutrition, physical health and remaining active.

Coincidentally, when Sir Paul reached age 64, he and wife Heather Mills were no together anymore, but his children recorded a new version of the song to their dad. He was still loved.