Country icon Willie Nelson recently reflected on his mortality, referring to himself as the "last leaf on the tree."
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Nelson was born in Abbott, Texas, in 1933 during the Great Depression.
Raised in an era of widespread struggle, Nelson embarked on a decorated music career that elevated him from a small-town resident to a global music star.
The 93-year-old reflects on that journey in his new book, The Last Leaf: Reflections on Late-Life Creativity—and My Longest Love Affair, which was released today, Nov. 10.
Speaking with the Guardian about his new book, Nelson explained why longevity is sometimes burdensome.
"Longevity is a blessing and also a burden. A blessing because you get to hang around to see your grandkids and maybe even your great-grandkids. But a burden because every day it seems like another friend has passed. Grieving becomes a full-time job," Nelson told the outlet.
Willie Nelson Speaks Out
"The last man standing can be lonely. Loss is something you don't get over. That idea hit me hard when a friend's wife died, and he came to me for comfort. He saw me as a guy who might understand. The thing I know most, I told him, especially after my son Billy died in 1991, aged 33, is that you don't get over it, but you will get through it. Best I can do is write a song."
Although Nelson has grieved the loss of dozens of friends and family members, he is grateful that he hasn't had to process it alone, and praised his wife, Annie, for providing comfort.
"Annie and I have clocked more than 35 years together. That's a record for me," Nelson said, adding that his previous three marriages didn't top 17 years.
Nelson also shared a few tips on how he stays active and in good health in his advanced years.
"I've played softball and been a runner for years. I've also taken tae kwon do for years. It's a mental and physical discipline that's been good for my mental health, my strength, my breath and my music," the Country singer shared.
Nelson added that he isn't spending his days watching the clock waiting for the reaper, and that mortality is a natural part of life.
"Well, you know, everybody's gonna die, so it ain't no big deal how long we got. We live and we die, and I believe we come back again."
