How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you were? ~ Satchel Paige

Leroy “Satchel” Paige (1906 – 1982) has the distinction of being the oldest rookie and the first African American to launch a major league pitching career. He was signed by the Cleveland Indians at age 42 and went on to become one of the most celebrated fastball pitchers in baseball history. In a 2010 article for Sports Illustrated, sportswriter Joe Posnanski named Paige the hardest thrower in baseball history and Sporting News listed him #19 in their roundup of the 100 Greatest Baseball Players. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame on August 9, 1971.

Aside from being an all-star pitcher, Paige had a clever way with words and a “young at heart” attitude. Satchel’s Guide to Longevity goes perfectly with the general theme here at Artful-Aging. No need to complicate things.

• Avoid fried meats. They angry up the blood.
• If your stomach disputes you, lie down and pacify it with cool thoughts.
• Keep the juices flowing by jangling around gently as you move.
• Go very light on the vices, such as carrying on in society. The social ramble ain’t restful.
• Avoid running at all times.
• Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.

Now, honestly—how old would you think you were if you really didn’t know? It’s an interesting question, isn’t it? How old do you feel?

Whatever your age, how do you see yourself in 1 year? In 5 years?

Healthier? Happier?

What are your health goals? Do you have any?

Do you want to eat better, lose weight, reduce stress, sleep better, gain strength, feel more energetic?

Start now. And don’t look back.

“We don’t stop playing because we get old. We get old because we stop playing.” ~ Satchel Paige

We’re all in this together. Let’s “jangle around gently” and artfully age.

Onward,
Melissa