A Normal Cataract For a 60 Year Old

37  bar falls 30.08 3mph dewpoint 29  Spring

              Waxing Crescent Moon of Growing

It happens to each of us from time to time.  A slap in the face, either gentle or harsh, that says you’re getting old.  Jane West, my opthamologist, whom I consider a friend, gave me one today. 

“You have a slight cataract.”

“Oh.”

“Yes, I’ve been drawing it for several visits.  It’s not significant.  It’s a normal 60 years old cataract.”

“Oh.”  Not knowing there was such a thing.  And I had one.

“Will it progress?”

“Yes.  But how fast depends on so many things.   General health. (good)  Diet, especially anti-oxidants. (I start my day with at least 3/4 cup of blueberries in my oatmeal.)  Diabetes. (nope) Family propensity. (Don’t think so.)  So, it’s nothing to worry about.”

I believe her.  She’s always been straight with me, a quality I prefer.  Still, a normal 60 year olds cataract?  I’ve never wanted to be normal and definitely not in age-related phenomena.  I want to be age-defying, younger than my years, in really good shape for a guy…with the usual cataracts.  Sigh.  I know these are forlorn and at one level even harmful hopes.  In these matters I prefer a large dose of contradiction.  I wish to be younger than my years, yet aging gracefully.