Aging

Oh the passage of time. Everyone seems to want to live forever, but no-one wants to grow old. As for me, I enjoy each of life's cycles. I have had the marvelous benefits of all the love and opportunities and the trials and tribulations that came with youth and middle age.

Now at 68, it is my time to be gray and a bit wrinkled as I contemplate all the lessons life has offered and to grow wiser from the experience. I actively seek greater wisdom and willingly share what life has taught me with anyone who has an interest.

Yesterday, I saw a picture recently taken of my youngest son Clayton, 38 and me and I was stunned to see how young he looked, his resemblance to a much younger me showing how old in appearance I've become. Yet from the inside, I feel far more youthful than I appear.

Last week in the gym, a 50 ish man who I've found to be friendly said, "You look great for a man of 75." With a smile, I told him I'm 68 and in a heartbeat he became very embarrassed, fumbling in his words, trying to explain away what he had said. I smiled more broadly and assured him it was fine as he tried to regain his composure.

His comment didn't hurt me for these are considerations of the ego. It is my hope to increasingly be guided by my Higher Being, and not by my ego. Awkward instances like these are part of the growth process, and if not taken seriously can be amusing. I seek humor and insight where I can find it and to share joy with others at every opportunity, not to embarrass or hurt them.

Each day presents new lessons, loving or harsh, and opportunities to grow and find greater meaning in life if one has a positive attitude and a receptive mind. How else can this happen but to welcome the passage of time and all it has to offer.

Dick