Now for a few words on important subjects of the day.
1. I am getting ready to go to the Shiva for my departed friend Norman Lear. Norman was the first close friend I had in Hollywood. Despite yawning chasms of differences on politics, I loved him, and I believe he loved me. He treated me like a prince. I miss him like the cut of a knife.
READ MORE from Ben Stein: I Loved Norman Lear
2. I am an old man now. I was recently blessed with my 79th birthday. I got to spend it mostly with my wife, Alexandra. She and I have been together since 1966. I never met a finer human being than she is. She is a material girl living in a material world. I am blessed that I can still afford to buy her the fol-de-rol she so much loves.
She also loves luxury and idleness. She lies in bed all day and listens to audio books. If they make her happy, more power to her. I hate idleness, and I am happy that the woman of my dreams loves it.
3. As you enter into the world of old age, here is the main thing you should bring with you: money. It’s a life saver. It can buy you 24/7 caregivers, the best cuts of steak and salmon available at the world’s best supermarket, Pavilions.
The pleasure that washes across my wife’s perfect face as she eats her Prime Boneless Ribeye and her Skuna Bay Salmon Fillet is a marvel to see. God bless Pavilions.
The caregivers part is also indispensable. I do not want her to ever be lonely. I want her to have women who are cheerful, helpful, and well-trained caring for her.
Not cheap, but it makes all of the difference in her life. I am still on the road often, and I do not want for my wife to have to dwell on lonely street.
She’s my goddess.
4. If it occurs to you and if it’s possible, when you buy your final home, buy one with no stairs. It’s hard for us old folks to navigate stairs. That did not occur to me when I bought this house and many others. It sure occurs to me now.
5. Have as many friends as you can. Friendships are golden. My pal Larry Lissitzyn many years ago said that he treated his longtime friendships as if they were works of art — and they are.
Being old and lonely is very hard on us.
6. If you are married, stay married.
7. Try as much as you can to stay in decent shape. Good health is diamonds.
I’ll write more later.
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