"Yesterday is History. Tomorrow is a Mystery. Today is a Gift."

This phrase from Dr. Robert Schuller of the Crystal Cathedral has made an impact on my perspective on aging.

As a child we had our heroes and heroines—a person we wanted to be like, a movie star, a sports figure, a role model—the magical era of make believe. But then, in our young adult years, we were very busy raising a family, experiencing World War II, and not focusing on the childhood dream of wishing to be someone else. We all had challenges and survived them. That is History.

Today is a Gift. I am very fortunate in my profession as a weekly TV hostess to confront many aging issues, bring to light the many contributions seniors are making, i.e., volunteering, mentoring the young, and taking on health issues with a positive and informative outlook.

Personally, I had cataract surgery on television to encourage viewers. Also, when I learned of seniors having a fear of a colonoscopy, I had mine done on my TV show—long before Katie Couric. The feedback from the medical community has been very rewarding. Many viewers have responded by requesting these procedures as some of their concerns have been alleviated. Presently, I am fighting breast cancer while sharing the whole procedure with my viewers to demonstrate strength, determination, and courage. The doctors told me they will do 70%, but I have to do 30%.

So being a "role model" to the viewers has been a gratifying experience. You don't have to have a TV show to be a role model to others. One of the blessings is the love, understanding, and awareness the younger generation has come to recognize in the aging population.

Keep a good sense of humor. Have faith in God. Live everyday to its fullest. Don't worry about tomorrow. Tomorrow is a Mystery.