Better to Wear Out

How did you do on the vegetable and fruit challenge? Paula and I averaged over five per day for the holiday weekend; cutting up vegetables to use in a dip always helps the average. Remember—just send me an email saying, “I did it!” to get an invitation to the Insiders Conference Call next Wednesday evening.

While recumbent biking Sunday morning, I was listening to a podcast about hot dog joints, of all things. One owner asked an 84-year-old guy who was financially secure why he was still working in the restaurant part-time. He told the owner, “It’s better to wear out than rust out—and don’t you ever forget it.”

I believe there’s a lot of wisdom in those words. I would add one more part to it: “on your own terms.” There is a difference between approaching 84 living an immobile life with many self-inflicted conditions. It’s entirely another when you’re sharp enough and fit enough to still enjoy looking forward to another day. Genetics, environment, and prior body abuse aside, you can still work at being as independent as possible every day. Eating enough vegetables and fruit are a part of that process. If you did it for a challenge, that’s a start. You can do it for life.

Wear out, don’t rust out, on your own terms. It all comes down to one thing: What are you prepared to do today?

        Dr. Chet

Reference: Podcast. The Sporkful. “This Hot Dog Tastes Like Home” 07/04/2025