Some former curmudgeons, later in life, make a conscious decision to become warm and encompassing individuals. As mortality becomes more tangible, they realize that it’s a waste of rapidly diminishing time to be cagey and mean-spirited, and with an effort—no less laudable for being discernible—they summon long-buried reserves of warmth and generosity. They realize that it’s time to be a good person, and strive towards that end until it comes naturally. Such a position, however, requires financial (and sometimes connubial) well-being: a secure center from which geniality and generosity can flow outward. It can be a heroic feat and is probably very rewarding for all concerned. Unfortunately, I am incapable of it on a practical level, as I will probably never be able to financially (or connubially) afford it.
John Tottenham 
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