Letters About Changing Body Image

Dear Ma, One of the questions on my mind these days is the body and aging. I'd love your input. Does one accept the natural changes of the body? Does one fight them, go with the flow or find a way to stay firm and fit and invest the necessary time and effort? I was thinking about your running the New York marathon and the kids telling their friends with great pride, "My grandmother ran the marathon." I loved talking to you after you trained. You sound energized and full of the spirit of the thing. You told me once that it had helped you build stamina and discipline for other challenges of life, and that the marathon people stressed that what was important was doing one's personal best.

Dear Fa, Over the years, we have exchanged opinions on how to respect and care for our bodies, tbe aware of the body, respect limitations, and be on guard for injury. Today there is a strong emphasis on aerobic exercise, strength training and flexibility for every age. A personal trainer at the neighborhood gym believes that these three components are essential for healthy living. Recently, he helped a ninety-year-old woman get stronger with lifting weights twice a week and so he is convinced that no matter what the age, anyone who really wants to and is disciplined can make significant change.