I had a crush on movie star Cary Grant in my younger years. After this handsome actor quit movies more than 40 years ago, he began making appearances in theaters across the country, billed simply as “A Conversation With Cary Grant.” Here are some of his sentiments, in part.

“Keep me free from the recital of endless details. I would like to improve my memory clashes with those of others. Keep me reasonably kind. I've never aspired to be a saint - saints must be rather difficult to live with. Yet, on the other hand, an embittered old person is a constant burden. Give me the ability to see good in unlikely places, and talents in unexpected people. And give me the grace to tell them so.”

After considering Cary's words, we might as well “face the music and dance” -- to a different drummer, perhaps! His lecture can guide us! For instance:

€ “The endless recital:” Like Thumper the rabbit in the cartoon movie, “Bambi,” let's heed the rabbit's advice and remember, “If I can't say somethin' nice, I won't say nothin' at all.”

€ “Improve my memory:” I'll pay attention, make a list, give myself verbal orders, and obey them on cue.

€ “Reasonably kind:” I'll admit I've made a mistake or two in my life and should make allowances for the errors of others. I'll notice some of the sadness and hurts around me and see if there is anything I can do to help.

€ “Embittered old person:” I'll turn up the corners of my mouth; I'll count my blessings. There have been many.

€ “See the good and the talents:” I'll forget fault-finding and look for beauty and accomplishment.

€ “Grace to tell them so.” I will be an admirer and encourager. There isn't a person on this earth who doesn't appreciate a pat on the back!

Let's all take the years ahead in stride remembering Cary's words. Surely his attitude would help us to get through those coming “super years.”

Dorothy Nelson lives and writes in Auburn