Let's talk about Love

Hi, it’s Joyce from the YMCA!

Today, let’s talk about LOVE.  Something we all want and need, but most of us don’t really understand.

In my 20 years at the YMCA I have seen many relationships start here. I’ve seen young adults workout with their friends then meet up for a drink afterwards.  I know of many people who go out for coffee after a class. The YMCA is where they connect, renew friendships, or even find love.

I see married couples come in the front doors together then go their separate ways, one to the Fitness Center and the other to one of our many Group Exercise classes. Sometimes they workout together, walking side by side on the treadmills, but more often doing their own thing,  meeting up in the lobby again when they are finished.

We have many single members as well as widows and widowers that attend classes, play Pickleball, or enjoy time in the Fitness Center. 

Which leads me to the main subject of this story:

Love the second time around.

But the second time around isn't the same as the first time. You're older, and what you want in life has changed. Many of the goals of a first marriage such as buying a house, working a new job, and having children, are no longer goals in a second marriage. Instead, you're looking for someone to settle into retirement with, to share travel destinations with you, and to be your bridge or Pickleball partner.

Some people may think that they are “too old for that silly stuff” but today’s Active Older Adults have much to offer.  They are stable, financially secure, wise to the ways of the world, and know what they want. Society can also put a huge downer on senior romance but I think people deserve to feel happy and loved at any age. Whenever I see an older couple walking hand-in-hand down the street, I smile and think, “good for them!”

Homecareassistance.com says, You can’t compare this love story to your first time.  You are not the same person you were then.  You have don’t have to plan for the future because the future is now.  You can just enjoy each day as it comes.  As a retired couple you will be spending lots of time together so you will want to make sure you have similar interests.  But you are bound to have differences so you must respect them.  Give each other room to pursue your different hobbies.  Be ready to downsize.  You can’t keep all your stuff and his stuff and start a future together.  It’s time to let go.  There will be an adjustment period.  Be patient while you sort it all out.  This is a new beginning.

So if you are looking for love, come to the YMCA and meet some of my Amazing Older Adults.  Actually, we are having a Senior Prom on September 28^th at the YMCA of Laurel Highlands.  It is a fundraiser to recognize and support the Twilight Wish Foundation of Westmoreland County.  There will be food, fun, and dancing.  What better way to make new friends and who knows, maybe find love!