A Mental Exercise

Having recently joined a large fitness center in a new area, and being 76 years old, I was concerned that after my workout I would forget which was my locker. On my first day, as I placed my things in the locker, several women were engaged in casual conversation around me. Afraid I’d be distracted and not remember my spot, I said my number—“i’m 86”—in what I thought was a whisper. Apparently it was louder than I realized, as conversation stopped and several voices called out, “You certainly look good for your age!” —Michelle Gabriel san ramon, california