Dear Sir,

Further to your editorial in today’s paper (January 5, 2018), I thought I would share the enclosed, source not known.

Some senior citizens are being criticised for the present deficiencies of our modern world; real or imaginary, present or past, foreign or domestic.

We take responsibility for all our actions and omissions; we do not try to blame others for our past imperfections, ignorance or failures.

Our generation saved the world from fascism and racism, while we raised the standard of living, healthcare and life expectancy.

However, upon reflection, we would like to point out that it was not senior citizens who took:

• The melody out of music

• The pride out of appearance

• The courtesy out of driving

• The romance out of love

• The commitment out of marriage

• The responsibility out of parenthood

• The togetherness out of the family

• The learning out of education

• The service out of patriotism

• The civility out of behaviour

• The refinement out of language

• The dedication out of employment

• The prudence out of spending

And we certainly are not the ones who eliminated patience and tolerance from personal relationships, and interactions with others on a face-to-face basis.

And, we do understand the meaning of patriotism, and remember those who have fought and died for our country.

Yes, I’m a senior citizen.

I’m the life of the party ... even if it lasts only until 8pm.

I’m very good at opening childproof caps ... with a hammer.

I’m awake many hours before my body allows me to get up.

I’m smiling all the time because I can’t hear a thing you’re saying. I’m sure everything I can’t find is in a safe secure place, somewhere.

I’m wrinkled, saggy, lumpy, and that’s just my left leg; but I haven’t made my skin look like wallpaper or snakeskin.

My ears, nose, tongue or naval have not been pierced with metal rings.

I’m beginning to realise that ageing is not for wimps.

Yes, I’m a senior citizen, and I think I am having the time of my life.

ANTONY SIESE

Paget