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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

EndNotes

Learning, still

Roger Cochran, 90, is a reading tutor at Hamblen Elementary School. He sits in the school library with books he might use in tutoring sessions. (Christopher Anderson)
Roger Cochran, 90, is a reading tutor at Hamblen Elementary School. He sits in the school library with books he might use in tutoring sessions. (Christopher Anderson)

I have often written about my friend, Mary, who died a week before she turned 91.  

Becky’s story today about Act 2, a learning center for people 50+, reminds me of Mary’s wisdom for a full, long life: keep curious, keep learning.  Mary bought a computer after she turned 80. And she used it, mostly for e-mail connections and to "look things up."

When people ask me what I would like to do when I retire, I often say, “Take a class or two.” I would like to fill in the gaps of what I missed: Greek Mythology, a scripture class on Luke-Acts, and a class or two on what I love: algebra –  I love algebra.

While many classes teach new concepts and offer opportunities, perhaps the greatest lesson of Act 2 is:  no matter our stage or age in life, it is never too late to develop our gifts and enjoy new friendships.

(S-R archives photo)



Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.