I’m tired of being old. I’ve had it long enough now. You can remove it. At 86, there’ll be no complaints from me. I was always quick, energetic, and ready. Now to be quick you worry you left something behind. Energetic? Forget it! Ready? My heart says yes, but the parts won’t cooperate all at the same time.

I’m tired of having to depend on people to take me anywhere. I had a very beautiful condo and outside the door sat a bright red Cavalier. I would wash and dress and bounce out to it and off to breakfast. I’d follow that with shopping and back to my condo to do a little housework. Must say I kept it beautifully and entertained at great length. Had a lot of friends and valued them. I saw many movies but not alone. Been propositioned and also proposed to. Needed neither, but kept them on hand, as you never know you might change your mind. I’m always open to suggestions.

I’m tired of people thinking &uot;hell&uot; and &uot;damn&uot; are swearing. Both are Bible words (I think) and I haven’t been struck down yet when I use them.

I’m tired of and hate narrow-minded people. I discuss any subject with anyone and really listen. I promise.

I like men and get along real well with them. Except one time way back in high school when I was dumped – one and only time in my life and it was my fault.

I’m tired of people who are never wrong and I get this group to the point where they don’t know what is right or what is wrong. I really can do it and delight in this sneaky ability. Try me – you’ll regret it. Remember also I’m Irish. You’ve been warned.

I’m tired of people with no sense of humor. Seems I’ve met a lot of them. Anyone with a conscience twinge – tough. You know.

I’m tired of people discussing their ailments. I don’t need it and I stop it by saying sweetly, &uot; I know two gals I taught with died of that.&uot; Boy, does that shut them up!

I’m tired of being asked what I’d do in a certain situation. My Yankee advice: do what suits you best. We’re all different. &uot;Viva la difference!&uot;

When I was growing up I was so tired of being called cute. Anyone trying it today gets a hearty thanks. As Bush says, &uot;Bring it on.&uot;

I got very tired of hearing Civil war chatter when I first came here. My advice: forget it. There are lots more out there than that. If we can forget so can you.

Anyone with ‘I’m tired of’ experiences, drop me a line. I’d love to hear them.

Florence Arena is a resident of Hillcrest Retirement Center and a regular News-Herald columnist.