Maybe our independence isn’t really lost as life changes—maybe it just evolves. The question may not be whether we remain as independent as we were, but whether we can redefine it in a way that preserves our inherent sense of worth.
You are living a good life; and, you are truly blessed to be without any major health concerns. As a highly educated person , you know how rare that is. But, yes, let us redefine the term “ independence “.
Thank you for suggesting “interdependence” as the term I needed. Since age 80, 7 years ago, I’ve have my own home on my son’s rural property and since I wisely donated my car a few years ago it’s been hard to claim that I am still independent. Walmart delivers, my son repairs and adjusts whatever, and my daughter-in-law has health skills she offers as needed, though I’m enjoying good health as long as my knees continue to cooperate. She and my son make great neighbors, yet I try to give them plenty of room and not be intrusive. Gardening is good exercise and keeps me busy… but “independent” no longer applies.
Maybe our independence isn’t really lost as life changes—maybe it just evolves. The question may not be whether we remain as independent as we were, but whether we can redefine it in a way that preserves our inherent sense of worth.
You are living a good life; and, you are truly blessed to be without any major health concerns. As a highly educated person , you know how rare that is. But, yes, let us redefine the term “ independence “.
Thank you for suggesting “interdependence” as the term I needed. Since age 80, 7 years ago, I’ve have my own home on my son’s rural property and since I wisely donated my car a few years ago it’s been hard to claim that I am still independent. Walmart delivers, my son repairs and adjusts whatever, and my daughter-in-law has health skills she offers as needed, though I’m enjoying good health as long as my knees continue to cooperate. She and my son make great neighbors, yet I try to give them plenty of room and not be intrusive. Gardening is good exercise and keeps me busy… but “independent” no longer applies.