"I've always had a soft spot in my heart for elderly people. I think it comes from my relationship with my grandmother - one of my mentors and teachers. And it comes from knowing these elderly people have a long and rich history.

When you get to be an elder, you tend to turn and look back over all those years that stretch out so far back into the past.

But our life's paths change as we move toward crossing over. I can see that when I compare my talks to elementary-school students, college students or young adults. They are looking forward: They're asking, "How can I get that nice car or big house?" and "How can I keep myself beautiful?", for example.

As you get older, it is hard to change your income. You either made it or you didn't. Also, your body is affected by how you've lived or what comes your way in terms of diseases."

Get the Story:
DORREEN YELLOW BIRD COLUMN: Aging brings new joys, insights and friends (The Grand Forks Herald 5/21)

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