Adrian Barich: How 'Then and Now' Videos Inspire Me to Keep the Old Man Out
I consider myself a glass-half-full kind of person. Each morning, I eagerly take my dog Frankie to the park and then attempt a walk or run for about an hour, as I am loosely training for a marathon. However, my Facebook feed has recently been delivering a subtle intervention.
You have likely encountered those clever "then and now" videos circulating online. They use AI to morph images of famous actors from beloved TV shows or movies of the past into their current appearances. As you scroll, reminiscing about watching shows like Happy Days on shag-pile carpet, these videos hit with a stark reality check.
A Stark Reality Check from The Sound of Music
The most recent video that halted me was about The Sound of Music. We all recall the von Trapp children in their nautical uniforms, singing perfect harmonies against stunning Austrian backdrops. Many have visited Austria on trips like Contiki and marveled at the original house.
Yet, the updated video was startling. Nearly the entire cast has passed away, with Gretl, the adorable youngest, now 67 years old. Research revealed that Kym Karath, who played Gretl, could not swim and nearly drowned during the boat-tipping scene because Julie Andrews fell the wrong way. It is fascinating what details emerge decades later.
The March of Time and Its Wake-Up Calls
These posts vividly illustrate how time flies. Seeing casts from shows like Cheers or Seinfeld, some with digital angel wings to denote their passing, serves as a wake-up call. It is particularly sobering when stars died shortly after their shows ended or in their 60s, highlighting that no one escapes time's march.
However, there are positive moments too. For instance, a video of Little House on the Prairie showed Melissa Sue Anderson, who played Mary, still bearing a resemblance to her 1970s self. While such images can evoke melancholy, as childhood heroes age or movie "kids" become seniors, they also underscore the weight of years.
Embracing Clint Eastwood's Philosophy
This is where I draw the line. When I feel that negative vibe, I recall a philosophy borrowed from Clint Eastwood: "Don't let the old man in." The "Old Man" is not about age but a metaphorical spirit of doubt and complaint, whispering that you are too old for activities or that the world has moved on.
Seeing the von Trapp children or Seinfeld cast reminds me that while we cannot stop physical aging, we can resist this mental intruder. The key is to fight it by keeping mind and body active. Simply putting on your shoes can spur movement. Whether your passion is footy, gardening, or being an enthusiastic grandparent at netball, staying engaged is a victory.
Living Legends and Continuous Effort
Like living legends who improve with age by consistently showing up, we can thrive by maintaining enthusiasm. Next time a "then and now" post makes you sad, let it motivate you to redouble your efforts. Time may fly, but that does not mean letting the old man in.
I will be out there, striving to outpace my own "then and now" photo. Stay active and embrace life's journey.
