As part of the Write for the Fight campaign, I invited goddess of words (and my friend, I’m proud to say) Jo VonBargen to answer one of the questions that was asked of the contributors to the book: What would you want said about you on your 80th birthday? Knowing what I know about Jo, I’m not surprised that what she sent back is a moving reflection on life, full of the humility and humanity that she demonstrates every day. Thank you, Jo, for contributing your wise words and helping the Write for the Fight team raise funds for breast cancer research.

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I would imagine the first comment would be, “Oh, you’re still here?” Those who know me likely remember how from day one I’ve flopped around on the deck of life like landed trout and how unlikely it is that I survived.

Another would be, “You look so good, darling!” This is how you know you’re old. If you do, indeed, look good, it’s a testament to how well you’ve taken care of yourself. If they add the “darling”, it’s probably a pity gesture. Okay, whatever. Bad hair days don’t get to me anymore. Looks aren’t important. It’s what kind of hair you have inside. I think it was Gary Shandling that said that once.Continue Reading