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Sarah Van Arsdale's avatar

Another beautiful short essay, Richard, as we go dancing, dancing, dancing into the next years. And I loved this in particular: " the voice-quieting level land..." Dang!

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Sarah, you are so sweet to write me this. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it.

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Elizabeth Godfrey's avatar

This one made me smile. Thanks for the videos---I love Zydeco! I have experienced this all-age-inclusive dancing with Bluegrass Festivals in the Smokies, and at weekly Ceilidh in Scotland. Seems the rural folks can "kick up their heels" no matter how old. Such fun!

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Yes--rural folks keep it real!

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Laura O'Keefe's avatar

A lovely rumination on aging, as well as a beautiful description of the landscape and the people in southwestern Louisiana.

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Thanks, Laura. I'd love to talk to you about Australia sometime.

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Joanne Miller's avatar

I love this post! You brightened my day with the Zydeco music and the message. 😊

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Well, then that's made my day!

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Brian Willson's avatar

I ❤️ Zydeco.

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Gary Gruber's avatar

As an elder, I wear the label gratefully and joyfully, at least most of the time. We have earned this status through years of work, loving, suffering, giving and getting so wherever and in whatever we find joy we can take the opportunity to celebrate and share it. Even something as small as a smile, a kind word or two and yes, a meal together. https://garygruber.com/the-wisdom-of-children/

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Just happy to still be here.

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Charles Salzberg's avatar

Well said, Richard. And import for all of us to share these feelings and experiences. And do not go gently into this good night.

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Richard Goodman's avatar

No gentle going!!!

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Marilyn Moss Rockefeller's avatar

This is a wonderful post and so welcomed by an 83-year old. Dancing should be a part of one's life from beginning to end. Thank you.

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Richard Goodman's avatar

I agree! Let us dance up a bloody storm!

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Nancy Harmon Jenkins's avatar

Great!!! So glad video works on Substack, too--wonderful music, Richard. And you danced?

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Richard Goodman's avatar

Yes, indeed I did!!

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Tom Sadler's avatar

Thanks for this, I was feeling a little blue myself. This helped. A lot.

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Richard Goodman's avatar

That makes my day, Tom.

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Tom Sadler's avatar

As did your article.

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