Chen Song Ping

Landscapes of our lives

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This article may change your perspective on life and help you face it with optimism.

Written by Zhou Daxin, a recipient of the Mao Dun Literature Prize, in his latest novel about aging—he profoundly describes the twilight years of life with words that strike the heart of every elderly person. Every sentence rings true.
Thankful for the share ~

In our later years, we must become familiar with and accept six types of “landscapes” along life’s journey, so we can calmly enter the night.
Night falls very slowly.

From the age of 60, we enter the later stage of life. Before night fully falls, there are certain “landscapes” we must remember. If we remember them, we will be mentally prepared and not panic.

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The First Landscape: Fewer people will be by your side.

Most of your elders—parents and grandparents—will have passed on. Your peers may be overwhelmed with their own issues. The younger generation is busy with their lives. Even your spouse may leave before you. You’re left with long, empty days.
You must learn to live alone and face solitude.

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The Second Landscape: Society’s attention will fade.

No matter how brilliant your career once was, or how famous you were, aging turns everyone into an ordinary old man or woman.
The spotlight no longer shines on you. You must learn to quietly stand in the corner, appreciating the excitement and success of the younger generation—without jealousy or resentment.

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The Third Landscape: Dangers along the road increase.

Fractures, cardiovascular disease, brain degeneration, cancer—they may all come knocking, whether you welcome them or not.
You must learn to live with illness, to see sickness as a companion. Let go of fantasies of perfect health. Maintaining a good attitude and exercising appropriately becomes your mission.
Encourage yourself to keep going.

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The Fourth Landscape: You may return to the bed, just as in childhood.

When we were born, our mothers cared for us in bed.
After a life of struggle and hardship, we return to where we began—bed—awaiting the care of others.
But unlike when we arrived, we may not have loved ones to care for us as our mothers did. If someone is there, they may not care as deeply. More often, it’s a hired caregiver, smiling outwardly but impatient inside.
You must stay humble—and even grateful.

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The Fifth Landscape: Many along the road will try to deceive you.

Scammers know that older people often have savings, and they’ll use every trick—calls, texts, emails, free samples, miracle cures, “blessed” items, longevity pills—just to empty your wallet.
You must stay alert. Guard your money. Spend wisely.

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The Sixth Landscape: Treat your spouse (or close companion) with kindness.

Speak gently and thoughtfully. Show concern. Especially to your husband or wife.
They are your final “life savings.” After 60, relying on children is unreliable—they have their own families. In the end, it is the old couple who depend on each other.
At this age, no one is looking to stray—we only fear losing one another.

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Before night falls, the final stretch of life dims gradually, making the road harder to walk.
So after 60, we must see life clearly. Cherish and enjoy it. Don’t try to manage society or control your children’s affairs.
Don’t act superior or speak down to others—such behavior only hurts others and yourself.
In old age, we must learn respect. Accept this final phase of life with understanding, serenity, and spiritual readiness. Let nature take its course and remain calm.

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“Night Falls Slowly” truly captures the essence of the twilight years, with every word hitting home for the elderly.
Dear classmates, colleagues, and comrades—let us gently and wisely prepare for life’s final stop… 🌅🙏🙏

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