independence

At this stage of life, independence means I can still get dressed without turning it into an Olympic event.

It means I can button my own shirt, zip my own dress, and put on my socks without negotiating with my lower back.

It means I can take a shower without worrying that one wrong step will make me the evening news.

It means I can use the bathroom by myself and never take that privilege for granted.

When I was younger, I thought independence meant leaving home, earning my own paycheck, raising my family, and making my own decisions.

Those things still matter.

But aging has a way of teaching us that some of life's greatest victories happen in the privacy of our own homes.

Getting out of bed without assistance.

Walking to the mailbox.

Driving to the grocery store.

Opening a stubborn jar.

Carrying our own groceries—even if we make two trips from the car because we're too proud to ask for help.

These are not small things.

They are everyday miracles.

As a pastor, I've visited hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes for decades. I've watched strong, capable people pray for the very abilities most of us rush through without a second thought.

"Lord, help me walk again."

"Lord, let me feed myself."

"Lord, let me go home."

Those prayers have changed me.

Now, every morning I can stand at my bathroom sink, brush my own teeth, and style my Locs , I have another reason to whisper, "Thank You, Lord."

That's not fear.

That's gratitude.

I have no intention of sitting in a rocking chair waiting for life to happen.

After all, we ain't dead yet.

But I've learned that maintaining our independence doesn't happen by accident.

We protect it every time we choose a walk over another hour on the couch.

Every time we lift a weight instead of making another excuse.

Every time we eat one more vegetable and one less thing that came through a drive-thru window.

Every doctor's appointment we keep.

Every balance exercise we practice.

Every friend we call.

Every prayer we pray.

Those little choices are investments in tomorrow's freedom.

So hold on to your Independence.

Because for those of us over 65

it is a daily blessing worth protecting.

And if you're reading this while standing on your own two feet, dressing yourself, fixing your breakfast, and living your life—pause for just a moment.

Smile.

Thank God.

And keep moving.

Your future self is counting on you.

Grace and good health,

Dr. Sheron C. Patterson

Helping women age with power, purpose, and praise.