Old Age - Walk the Ramp with Grace and Pride

By Shrikant Soman

Growing old is not a burden. Depending on others for everything is.

Grow older, yes. But don’t grow dependent.

Because growing old is not a choice — it happens without your consent.

But being self-reliant, as much as you can, is a choice you exercise every waking moment of your life.

Self-reliance is not about doing everything yourself. It is about believing you still can.

The day you stop trying is the day you start shrinking from life.

In old age, small abilities become big freedoms. Walking on your own. Managing your routine. Handling your money. Staying mentally alert.

Every act of independence is a message to your body: “I’m still in charge.” It is also an assertion of self-validation.

I have seen people age faster not because of illness, but because they surrendered their will.

And I have seen people stay young at 80 because they kept one habit alive: taking responsibility for their own life.

Self-reliance gives dignity. Dignity gives confidence. Confidence keeps the spirit alive.

Grow older, yes. But don’t grow dependent.

Because aging may be automatic, but self-reliance is your daily act of courage.

The greatest gift you can give yourself in old age is the belief that you are still capable.

Self-reliance is not a skill for the young. It is the secret strength of the wise.

And when the final chapter arrives, remember this:

You will leave this world one day — as everyone eventually does.

But do not leave like someone quietly waiting for their last breath.

Leave the way a warrior ends a long journey. Leave the way a performer steps onto the ramp for one last, graceful walk.

Walk toward the final door of life with the same dignity, the same self-respect, and the same self-reliance that carried you all your years.

Naturally Curious