Have you ever wondered how some people seem to get crankier the older they get?  Have you ever worried that you might become one of them?  Ever since we began staying in a 55 or older community, I have noticed that a few people seem downright cranky at their age.  Luckily, the vast majority are friendly and kind but there are still a few that you quickly know to avoid.  How does that happen?  Were they always that way?  While I suppose some circumstances could lead to a person becoming justifiably cranky and disagreeable (like pain or loss) I think we likely have more choice in the matter than we know.  Plus, lately I’ve come across some new insights that would likely contribute to the mindset—those come from what is called “collective illusions.” [Read more…]