Recent articles in the news have concluded that “72 is the new 30.” Evidently breakthroughs in medicine, better eating habits, regular exercise, refraining from smoking and alcoholic beverages, and adopting a positive attitude have dramatically increased our longevity.

As I turn 70 this month (March 30), I greet this information with excitement and a sense of serenity. To be 70 is to appreciate Mark Twain’s example of aging vigorously: “I am able to say that while I am not ruggedly well, I am not ill enough to excite an undertaker.”

Frankly, I don’t consider myself a septuagenarian. There are no serious illness issues in my life other than I am not supposed to eat popcorn because of a digestion issue. I still have my own teeth and hair. My eyesight is good, so no need for a Seeing Eye dog. I look forward to turning 70 because there are several advantages. Let me illustrate.

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