By Cedric A. Murray
So I have finally turned 70 – the biblical age of three score and ten. And the truth is, I don’t feel 70: not in my mind, not in my spirit. My body reminds me here and there, of course, but it also surprises me with what it can still do.
As this milestone approached, I found myself reflecting on what life has really taught me… or what I should have learned by now.
Not textbook lessons – lived experiences, shaped by movement, work, setbacks, reinvention, community, and getting back up again and again.
Health Is the Real Wealth
If I’ve learned anything, it’s this: health gives you freedom.
When you move well, eat well, rest properly, and surround yourself with supportive people, life stays open and full of possibility. When you neglect those things, life starts to close in.
At 70, I appreciate every walk, every stretch, every moment my body shows up for me. I don’t take any of it for granted.
People Matter More Than Things
I’ve owned things, lost things, bought things and given things away. None of it compares to the value of people – the conversations, the shared meals, the laughter, the classes, the community.
Relationships are the real riches of life.
Reinvention Doesn’t Have an Age Limit
Ageing doesn’t mean slowing down – it means changing gears.
In the past few years, I’ve learned new technology, built programmes, created a wellness brand, launched classes, and found a new sense of purpose. I’m living proof that you can start fresh at any age.
You’re never too old to begin again.
Real Freedom Comes When You Stop Performing
There’s a freedom that comes with age.
Somewhere along the line, I stopped performing for the world, and I started living for myself.
I’m no longer trying to impress anyone.
I choose to live honestly, help others, grow, and do meaningful work. That shift has been one of the greatest gifts of getting older.
Purpose Keeps You Moving
Purpose gives energy.
On days when the body feels slow, purpose is what gets me up and out the door.
Whether it’s teaching a class, building a new programme, writing, or simply supporting someone on their wellness journey, having a reason to wake up each day keeps me young.
Protecting Your Energy Is Essential
By 70, you know exactly what drains you – and what fills you.
Drama? No interest.
Negativity? Not for me.
People who talk but never take action? Not my circle.
Movement, humour, nature, good food, creativity, and being around people with spark – that energises me. And I choose those things deliberately.
Strength Isn’t Just Physical
I’ve always valued physical strength, but life has shown me that resilience is the muscle that truly matters.
Being knocked down and getting back up.
Starting over without fear.
Adapting when life changes direction.
That kind of strength keeps you going through everything.
Time Becomes Precious
At this age, time doesn’t feel unlimited – and that changes how you use it.
I’m more thoughtful now.
I say no to things that drain me.
I say yes to what aligns with who I’m becoming.
Time is a gift, and I treat it like one.
Gratitude Deepens With Age
Gratitude becomes a daily posture.
I appreciate the small things more:
waking with energy, enjoying good food, being able to move, having purpose, and being part of a community that means something to me.
The small things are the big things.
The Biggest Lesson: Keep Learning
At 70, curiosity is still my fuel.
Learning keeps you alive.
Trying new things keeps you young.
Building, experimenting, exploring – all of that creates momentum for the next chapter.
And I’m not planning to shrink my world when there’s still so much to do, build, and experience.
So What Have I Really Learned by 70?
Life isn’t about perfection – it’s about progression.
It’s not about having all the answers – it’s about staying open.
It’s not about age – it’s about attitude.
I’ve lived, learned, stumbled, rebuilt, and kept moving. And strangely enough, I feel like I’m only just getting warmed up.
Here’s to the next chapter – stronger, wiser, freer, and full of purpose.
Thanks for being part of the journey.