What Are Your Plans for the Next Decade or Two?

Okay, I feel much younger now. And, no matter how old you are, the following story will probably make you feel better about your age and abilities as well.

The story is from Tennessee. Ken Mink, a 73-year-old full-time student at Roane State Community College scored two points Monday night in his school’s 93-42 victory over King College’s junior varsity. Mink entered the game with about 16 minutes left in the second half and attempted one shot in about three minutes. Seven minutes later, he went back in the game, was fouled and made two free throws.

“I found myself on the free-throw line 52 years after my last college game,” Mink said. “I said, ‘Just relax and shoot it like you know how to all day long.’ I just floated the shots in there. I’m in the books now. I can relax a little bit.”

Mink, of Knoxville, Tennessee, last played college basketball 52 years ago at Lees College in Jackson, Kentucky. After someone soaped the basketball coach’s office, he lost his spot on the team and was expelled. Mink still says he didn’t do it.

Last year, after shooting baskets at a neighbor’s house, he wrote to several area colleges, and Roane State coach Randy Nesbit agreed to give him a chance. Mink has practiced regularly with the team since school began in August.

So, do you feel better now?

I wonder what I will be doing at 72.

I hope I’m still living, first of all!

Then, I hope I’m still learning! And maturing! And growing! And shooting baskets! Well, I’ve never been very good at basketball. I hope I’m enjoying life as much as Mr. Mink seems to be.