I turned 76 in mid-December. I was a little apprehensive because, according to statistics, men usually live until 76 and women until 81. Andy Higgins, an elder comedian, jokes that if he transitions now (he’s 74), he can look forward to at least five extra years. Men’s earlier demise is attributed to accidents, heart disease and substance abuse. Every doctor and physical therapist I work with say I’m in pretty good shape.

Oh, yeah…I’m in physical therapy now. Remember that leg problem both Joan and I developed? Well, mine has been improving with PT. I actually went there on the afternoon of my birthday. Just another thing to do as you age, but worth it. I still have a ways to go.

I always love seeing who has a birthday around mine. Famous folks like Keith Richards and Beethoven. Close friends like Bruce Merson.

I’m always delighted by their accomplishments and somewhat thrilled that we share a birth sign. It gives me hope that good things still exist in the world.

It’s been a tough year. We lost Guy Michetti, Cara Liander, Cynthia Mailman, Robert Mosci and Ellen Mitchell. Our state of the nation ain’t so great. We’ve had to deal with the cost of everything going way up, sickness and violence. Still, we persist.

I could go all sage on you and pronounce what I’ve learned at 76. But, instead, let me say this: Remember that each of us carries a burden that no one else is........

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