I think we all have them. Certain phrases or cliches that make us cringe at the mere utterance of the words. For me, it’s you can’t teach an old dog new tricks. I openly despise these words, mostly because I know in my heart they are completely false. It’s that simple.
The truth is, I think this is one of many realities that translates from the four-legged to the two-legged world. Ageism is a problem in society, and it is one of the things in life I just don’t understand. With age comes life. Wisdom. Memories. These are things to be honored and respected, not tarnished by a silly stereotype. 
I know some people don’t like it when mom asks them how young they are, but I also know she has her reasons. And she asks the question the same way, whether she’s talking to a six-year-old or a 67-year-old. I heard it again today, as she interviewed an older woman and her husband who make appearances in our area as Santa and Mrs. Claus. Santa’s helpers, they called themselves.
They too spoke of this societal problem with age, as they focus their emotional efforts on keeping the magic of Christmas alive regardless of who they visit. And it pays off, because from day cares to nursing homes, the result is the same. They inspire a joy deep within you can’t lose with age. I would dare go as far as to say it only gets better with age, but that’s just my humble doggie opinion.
I know we all have opinions about things, just like we all have phrases that make us emotionally cringe. But that’s also the reason I found this a fitting message to share as we are at the helm of the holiday season. I know random acts of kindness become a lot less random this time of year. I know its easier to be joyful and happy as planning gets underway for fun family festivities and holiday parties.
But I also know it’s not the same for everyone. For some people, these next couple of months are a torturous three month reminder of a loved one lost. A parent, a friend, or a family member who used to breathe life into the holiday has now left a gaping hole in the heart where joy used to be.
Young or old, these people need us this year. They need our love. They need our support. They need our joy to be contagious. Because ultimately that is what the holiday season is all about.
Wiley's Wisdom 
What a great post! I agree that we all should be nice to everyone we meet, and not only during the holidays. This is something that we don’t see too much of lately and that should change. I have seen kids be mean to others with bullying, and that should never happen. They would not like it if they were bullied back, right? Bring joy to someone’s life, do something nice for someone today, a random act of kindness and have a joyful heart! I am currently going through some heartache right now and will be losing my Mother soon, not something that I can handle.
I agree with you , kindness should be all year round. Wishing you strength to handle losing your mother. We all go through such hard times and my thoughts are with you!
Thank you for the well wishes for me & my Mom. It is really hard to watch a parents health fail.
we have a saying in New Zealand – ‘Kia kaha’ – stand strong.
Thank you! Being strong is all I can do right now! Hugs!
Hugs hugs hugs!
Oh, dear friend. Let me echo the words of my other comrades here in my circle of joy. My thoughts and prayers are with all the members of Nikitaland at this difficult time. What feels impossible now with be possible again soon. Stay strong and know you are loved!!!! And don’t let anyone tell you to do anything other than feel exactly how you feel in these moments. It’s the only true way to heal.
I agree. Age is not a good way to define people.