My father, who was born in America but raised in Italy, had the advantage of knowing two cultures. He was fond of quoting from his childhood experiences. Once he overheard me expressing impatience with an elderly person who was taking forever to sort coupons in the grocery line.

"Come tu sei, Io fui. Qel che Io sono tu sarai." He nodded his head sadly.

"What's that mean?" My impatience now extended to him.

"As you are, I once was. As I am, you will be."

His words had the desired effect. From that day forward, I was much more patient in my interactions with the elderly, knowing that one day, I myself would be elderly and would hope for patience from the younger people around me.

His words also made me think about my future and to begin preparing for it. We women are so busy nurturing others that we sometimes forget to take steps to nurture ourselves. Here are but a few questions to help you prepare for that future state of elderli-ness that you will one day, God willing, reach.

• Am I exercising regularly so that osteoporosis will not get a "toe-hold" in my body?
• Am I taking vitamins regularly?
• Am I seeing my doctor for an annual physical?
• Have I cut out the activities (smoking, excessive eating) that I know will one day take their toll on my body?
• Do I go for regular mammograms?
• Do I have a Pap test once a year?
• Do I have an outlet for the stress that can overwhelm me if I allow it to?
• Am I saving/investing wisely for my old age?

You know that the future belongs to those who prepare for it. Start your preparations this very day.

Dr. Marlene Caroselli, author of 53 business books (see Amazon.com) is an international keynote speaker and corporate trainer for Fortune 100 companies, government agencies, educational institutions, and professional organizations. You can reach her at mccpd@frontiernet.net.