Old Age Pastimes

 How do you spend time when you get old and less mobile?

Some of the activities you were used to including going out, may be difficult. So how do you pass your time?

Here are some idle thoughts-

Read. You can re-read books that you may have read long before. Including favourite authors. The newspaper delivers something new every day, and keeps you abreast of what is happening.

Talk to people- on phone, or in person. They may be your friends, family or whoever. Once in a day or two. Make a video  call on Meet, or Zoom with your kids if they live elsewhere.

Listen to the radio. It's great for listening to any songs you like. Or buy a Carvaan type device with a lot of stored songs.

Walk around, either in your housing society garden, or any other suitable space where it is safe.

TV? I would not recommend it. Maybe watch a movie on Youtube or an OTT channel. That is usually more satisfying.

If you are actually mobile, you have more options, like volunteering, guest lecturing or other ways to occupy yourself.

Cellphone Etiquette

A cellphone, though useful sometimes, is the most invasive tool ever invented by mankind, heat-seeking missiles included. Here are some tips for its use on me.

I am not a teenager and you are not my girlfriend. Therefore, I am not waiting for your call. Sorry, I got better things to do (eat, sleep, work, blog, golf, stare into space etc.), so if possible, stay away from your cell- and DON'T call me. Note: This does not apply to about 6 people. And, I KNOW who they are. You can guess who.

If you have to call, be prepared for my not wanting to answer. It's my cell, and my prerogative. Some days, I may not charge it, if I don't want to. Obama will not stop bombing Syria if I pick up your call.

I have some email IDs that could be accessible if you try and find out. Please send me a note explaining why I should talk to you. I will think about it.

Don't ever try to sell on the cell to me. I most likely will never buy from you after that. Even if it's a free holiday to Hawaai.

SMS was invented for Dodos to send relatively less invasive messages. Use it. And wait for a reply. It may happen in a minute, or a day, or a week. You did your job by sending it. (Yes, I know the Dodo is supposed to be extinct. I am still not sure.)