People often ask me if I’m afraid of artificial intelligence. My answer is simple:
I see no reason to fear AI, because I’ve always welcomed new tools that help me learn, grow, and connect.
AI doesn’t replace me—it enhances me. It’s like having a thoughtful, supportive assistant who’s always ready to help me with what matters most. At this stage in my life, that includes preserving my legacy, telling meaningful stories, and staying healthy and creative.
Here’s how I actually use AI in my everyday life:
- Writing Support: I’m working on my memoir, blog posts, and travel stories—and I use AI to help me organize my thoughts, polish my writing, and make sure I’m saying exactly what I want to say, in my own voice.
- Photo Projects: I’ve taken over 200,000 photographs in my lifetime, and I use AI to help me sort, choose, and describe the best ones for blog posts, competitions, and even my home décor.
- Wellness Accountability: As I recommit to healthy eating and fitness, I write down my meals, take photographs of them, and send them to AI to help me evaluate my progress. It’s like having a personal coach who’s always kind, encouraging, and consistent.
- Emotional Clarity: I use AI as a space to reflect, especially when dealing with difficult people or situations. It helps me write strong, clear boundary messages and process my emotions in a way that leaves me feeling empowered, not drained.
- Learning Partner: Whether it’s learning how to use my Nikon camera better, or researching historical places I’ve visited, I turn to AI first. It’s like having an always-curious friend who never gets tired of my questions.
At 80 years old, I’ve embraced darkrooms, DSLRs, typewriters, video cameras, and digital publishing. AI is just the next step—and I’m excited to walk it boldly.
It’s never too late to learn something new. And for me, AI isn’t something to fear. It’s something to use.