Jean Dublin, 70, started taking Senior Planet classes through the Connected NYCHA program in 2020. Today, she volunteers with Senior Planet’s walking club in NYC and leads a weekly meditation class at the Center.  

What was your experience like when you started taking classes with Senior Planet? 

It’s like you’re a diver on a boat in the middle of the ocean. You know you’re going to dive, but it’s into the unknown. As you launch in and then go deeper and deeper, not knowing what to expect.  

That’s my story. I kept diving deeper and deeper. Don’t think I would ever stop taking classes, because the yearning to learn more is always within me.  

You help lead the walking club that meets at the Senior Planet Center in NYC. What are the benefits of a walking club? 

Walking is man’s best medicine – because every organ in your body is alive and alert when you walk. Walking together – we learn, we grow, and we become the best version of ourselves. (The walking club is scheduled to begin again in April 2024.) 

Any advice on how people can start a walking club on their own? 

All you need to do is get a few people to start with – maybe from your community center or church. Wherever you are, you can start one by putting up a flyer.  

I’d advise anyone who can to give it a shot. If you can only do two blocks, do two blocks. The next day, you may be tempted to do three. 

I also lead the Meditation Class on Wednesdays, from 1 to 1:30, at the Senior Planet Center in NYC. Meditation is so good for you –it’s a body/soul connection.  

Do you use any tech when you exercise or meditate? 

I like my Fitbit – I’m a natural walker, so I never knew how many steps I was doing until I got it. It’s an astonishing number. I looked at it and said, “What? This is what I’ve been doing all these years?” 

What does aging with attitude mean to you? 

It means so much to me. I think that at this age, I must live my best life ever. 

I’m soon going to celebrate 71 – I don’t look at that as getting older. I’m getting wiser; more loving; more compassionate; more caring; and ready to spread the joys of life with my fellow human beings. It doesn’t have to be my relatives or someone I know. No! I meet you on the street, on the train, on the bus, and I am able to be a light in someone’s life. That is what is missing in the universe. We must love one another.  

YOUR TURN:

Have you been active in your community and made a difference?  Share your experience in the comments!

Pam Hugi is Senior Planet’s Community and Advocacy Manager. Based in Brooklyn, she is a contributing writer for this site.