Since our early years, we have learned that age is a state of mind - and that sometimes we are several ages all at one time. The number of years we have lived menas nothing. Some never achieve poise and wisdom. Some seem to be born with it. No one cares how old we are if we are projecting something worthwhile that defies age. When we are comfortbale with ourselves it reflects agelessness that only grows better with the years. Age, the Cherokee believes, includes the many stages of life to measure wisdom. If our minds are kept flexible, our bodies will be lithe and easy - and if our thoughts are rigid, our bodies will reflect it. We either grow and mature beautifully or we lose our flavor - like rare spices left in the wind.

"These people who want to go there will get old pretty soon." Tooklanni

Joyce Sequichie Hifler: A Cherokee Feast of Days