It might be the times we’re living in or perhaps the fact that I’m getting older, but it seems I want dessert every night. And it has nothing to do with being hungry or even craving something sweet. I think it’s just that after years of controlling myself about sweets, I feel like I’m losing the battle. When I look back on the war, now I’m talking about the war against overindulging, I’ve pretty much held my own. Years ago, I eliminated buying candy or popcorn at the movie theater. There was a time when I couldn’t sit through a film without a box of Raisinettes. And now, out to dinner with friends, dessert has long gone the way of the landline telephone. Whenever the server approaches, after the plates are cleared, I brace myself. Before the words are even out of the server’s mouth inviting us to order dessert, I blurt out a loud no. I shake my head vigorously, using aerobic activity to reinforce the decision. But secretly, deep in my heart, I’m saying yes. Yes, yes, yes. Well, actually, I’m screaming, bring me one of each.
Why Is This So Important?
Turning down dessert shouldn’t be such a big deal. Plenty of people don’t eat dessert. So what has changed in my life? Why is dessert nagging at me now? I think it has to do with entering a new decade of life. There is something about being 70. Eek. Did I actually write that dreadful number? Okay. It’s true. There is something about turning 70 that reminds me of those unfortunate passengers who turned down dessert their last night on the Titanic. Which proves (as if you didn’t already know this) that no one really knows when their final moment will arrive. And that final moment seems to be getting nearer and nearer. As Mame Denison so proudly announced, “Live, live, live.” I think it’s hard to do that without a bite of cheesecake. Or a lovely slice of chocolate cake. Perhaps a delicious cannoli. After all, it’s only wise to prepare for the inevitable. And now, in my 70s, when men tend to falter, doesn’t passing on dessert seem like a folly? I think so. And still, after all these years of controlling myself, I find it hard to indulge. Do I want that dessert? Sure. Will I order it? Not on your life.
Health Risks
As if it isn’t bad enough, we’re reminded all the time about healthy aging (I hate AARP). But I’ve been around too long to believe the claims. I remember when the world was low-fat. Does the name Susan Powter strike a chord with you? She was the low-fat guru. And then, we had sugar-free, followed by no carbs, and now, all protein. Some have advocated for eggs and bacon to replace oatmeal. Of course, I’ve followed all the trends. Hey, I’m just that kind of guy. But frankly, it doesn’t seem as if anyone really changed their body type with any of those diets. The Biggest Loser, the television show, put the final nail in the coffin for me. Yes, it makes sense to exercise. Everybody should move their body if only to avoid getting stiff joints. But I also remember James Fixx, the guy who wrote the “Complete Book of Running”. He died of a heart attack at age 52. And yes, he was running at the time. I think they found him in a bush somewhere. And then there is my personal exercise guru, Gilad Janklowicz. I was addicted to his workouts. For years, I slipped in a VHS tape at home and stepped my way through his aerobic classes. He just recently died at age 71. So much for longevity and being in great shape.
Hmmm?
Which now makes me wonder if I should sit back on the couch and enjoy myself with a big bowl of ice cream. After all, what’s the point of all this self-control? Why not just enjoy the time I have left? Indulge every craving. Soothe myself with sugar. I guess the answer is: I still want to be able to get up from the sofa. And if you did give in to every craving, well, you don’t want to wind up as an entry on the show, My 600-lb Life. What do you mean you’ve never heard of it? Hmmm. Well, neither have I. I haven’t watched it. I don’t watch reality television. And certainly not that show. I’m too busy reading Shakespeare (liar liar pants on fire).
Yum!
So here’s to your next bowl of ice cream. If I were there, we could click spoons in a toast. As my grandmother used to say, “Life is short. Why not live a little?” Emphasis on little. And just remember the sad tale of those who fought the bulge through vigorous exercise and dieting, only to gain it all back. When you get to a certain age, you never know when you’re going to need a little extra weight to sustain you, because everyone knows hospital food is terrible!
And Now for Something a Little Extra!
This month, we’re offering a free excerpt of my third novel, Boca by Moonlight. Set in sunny Florida, the story follows George, a widower, as he learns the importance of family and the meaning of friendship in this very adult coming-of-age novel. If you’ve ever lost a parent, you’ll recognize George’s crowd. You’ll laugh. You’ll cry. You’ll wish George a happy ending. Just click here and check it all out. And until we next meet, have a great August!
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