Lecture Notes

Questions on Age and Life Perspectives

Worst Things About Being Young

• Lots of homework
• Experiences can feel mixed – both good and bad

Worst Things About Being Old

• Inability to do things that were possible when young
  • Stiffness, pain when bending down
• Increased likelihood of getting sick
• Personal anecdote: only hospitalization was when mother didn’t enjoy giving birth

Desires Related to Age

• Wishing to be older: reasons
  • Ability to buy things independently
  • Potential to get married, though regarded humorously as undesirable
• Wishing to be young: reasons
  • More free time to do things
  • Ability to play games and use imagination freely

Using Imagination

• Examples of childhood games: Cowboys and Indians

Falling in Love

• Future perspective: having babies, enjoying parenting despite challenges
• Present love: family – mom, dad
• Past experiences: late love; partner passed away; cherished memories remain

Advice Shared

• Life philosophy: happiness is not dependent on wealth
  • Focus on doing things that make you feel good
  • Personal happiness influences others’ well-being
• Personal guidance to peer:
  • Act normal, avoid being silly
  • Avoid bullying
  • Show kindness to friends (example: hugging a friend when hurt)
• Life values:
  • Be authentic, don't let others dictate who you should be
  • Maintain good friendships
  • Positive outlook on future success