Al Roker, America’s beloved weatherman, recently celebrated his 70th birthday, a significant milestone prompting reflection and introspection. In a special moment of camaraderie and wisdom-seeking, Al turned to none other than Oprah Winfrey, who herself marked her 70th year earlier in the year. This insightful meeting between two broadcasting icons offered a glimpse into their thoughts on aging, life lessons, and finding joy at any stage. So, How Old Is Oprah Winfrey? Let’s delve into their conversation and explore Oprah’s perspective on this significant age.
Oprah Winfrey celebrated her 70th birthday in January of this year, entering a new decade with grace and characteristic wisdom. Known for her profound insights on living a fulfilling life, Oprah was the perfect person for Al Roker to connect with as he approached his own 70th birthday. Their meeting wasn’t just a casual chat; it was a meeting of minds, two legendary broadcasters sharing experiences and perspectives on reaching this milestone. Oprah, reflecting on her own journey to 70, shared with Al her excitement for each new year. “I was excited to make (70),” she revealed, “I’m excited to make every number. Because I remember many years ago as a young girl, I always thought that I would never make it to the 60s or 70s.”
Oprah’s reflections are rooted in her challenging upbringing in the South and Midwest. Growing up in poverty with her mother in Milwaukee, she acknowledged that her early circumstances made her believe she might not live to see her later years. This background fuels her deep sense of gratitude and her drive to make the most of every moment. For Oprah, turning 70 is not just about reaching a certain age; it’s about celebrating a life transformed, a journey of continuous growth and self-improvement.
When Al inquired if her sense of gratitude had deepened over the years, Oprah affirmed that her perspective has indeed evolved. “There is a sense of knowing there isn’t as much time left, and I am at peace with that knowing,” she explained. This awareness brings a renewed “sense of urgency” to live life fully and purposefully. This isn’t about fear, but rather a profound appreciation for the present and a conscious effort to live each day with intention and strength.
Both Oprah and Al, having undergone knee surgeries, also discussed their renewed appreciation for their health. Oprah highlighted the incredible resilience of the human body, marveling at how the heart “has (been) pumpin’, pumpin’, pumpin’ for you for 69 solid years, almost getting you there to 70.” This acknowledgment of their physical well-being adds another layer to their gratitude and perspective on aging.
Looking back, Oprah shared a regret regarding her career transition when she ended her iconic talk show “Oprah” and launched the Oprah Winfrey Network in 2011. She admitted that she should have taken a year off between these monumental endeavors. This reflection led to a valuable piece of advice: “When you don’t know what to do, do nothing. Get still with yourself and do nothing.” This wisdom speaks to the importance of pausing, listening to one’s intuition, and avoiding the pressure to constantly be in motion – a particularly relevant message in today’s fast-paced world.
Oprah emphasized the significance of listening to her “emotional GPS” and trusting her gut feeling. She believes that in the past, whenever she has followed her intuition, she has “never made a mistake.” This reinforces the idea of inner wisdom and the importance of self-awareness as we navigate life’s journey, regardless of age.
Despite their extraordinary lives and careers, both Oprah and Al find joy in simple, everyday pleasures. Oprah beautifully described her love for rainy days, seeing them as a “free day off” from expectations and obligations. She finds contentment in the quiet moments – “a rainy day. And a fireplace. And a blanket. And a dog at your foot and a great book.” These simple joys highlight a shift in perspective that often comes with age, a deeper appreciation for the present moment and the small things that truly enrich life.
In conclusion, as Al pondered whether 70 is something to be worried about, Oprah offered reassuring words: “Don’t be scared, Al. It’s going to be all right.” She sees aging not as a decline, but as a progression into a more authentic and evolved self. “I have aged into a form of myself that’s more wise, that is certainly stronger, that is more vibrant and aware and conscious than I’ve ever been,” Oprah declared. For Oprah Winfrey, whose age is indeed 70, this milestone is not just a number; it’s a testament to a life well-lived, filled with growth, wisdom, and an enduring appreciation for every moment.
