It’s funny how life works, isn’t it? We’re in such a hurry to grow up when we’re young. We dream about the future and all the adventures it will bring. But as we get older, we realize that those dreams needed some planning and some energy to be put behind them or weren’t going to happen. And they didn’t always. On occasion, I’ve been at the intersection of luck and preparation however being an observer is not the way to grow that gift. On the other hand, some of the most precious things were right there all along, often going unnoticed or unappreciated as I looked ahead. Now I spend more time looking around me.
Remember the days when we had boundless energy? We could stay up late, get up early, and still have the vitality to tackle the day ahead. It seemed like our bodies could handle anything—no aches or pains, no stiffness after sitting too long. Back then, we didn’t think twice about the ease with which we could move, run, dance, or even just bend down to pick something up. It was all so effortless. Now afternoon naps feel effortless and all I have to do is sit down on the couch. As we grow older, many of us realize the importance of exercise, stretching and balance. Atrophy is a word that I’ve become very familiar with.
And what about time? It felt like we had all the time in the world. We never fully grasped the concept of time passing, the way the years would seem to fly by. We were focused on the next big thing, always looking ahead, and often missing out on the simple joys of the present moment. Time felt endless when we were younger, and we often took it for granted, thinking there would always be more. Now it feels that time has passed too quickly. Too many contemporaries are passing away these days and they seem too young. Do you remember when ‘old’ was 20 years older than whatever your current age was? It still seems that way however now that I’m in that self-imposed ‘old’ category it doesn’t feel as old as I thought it would.
Then there’s the gift of connection. For some, the connection with family and friends is deep, meaningful and lasting while for others more substantial connections are formed as we grow into adulthood. Sometimes geography brings a distance never contemplated while other times it is strain within families that results in distance. I’ve learned that family can be chosen but also that creating a nuclear family of one’s own can be everything that was wanted and needed. I’ve seen friends move away, family members pass on, and have come to value the moments spent with loved ones more than ever. It’s not just about the quantity of connections but the quality—those deep, meaningful relationships that bring warmth to our hearts.
Let’s not forget about our health. When we were younger, it was easy to overlook how amazing it was to wake up every day feeling well. We didn’t worry much about doctors’ visits, medications or how many desserts we ate. We just lived. But now, as we navigate the ups and downs of aging, we understand how important it is to care for our health, to cherish the days when we feel good, and to take proactive steps to maintain our well-being. Being more thoughtful about what I eat not only feels better but is necessary. My sweet tooth has diminished all by itself and my hips are grateful.
The truth is, life has a way of teaching us to appreciate what we once took for granted, discard what doesn’t serve us and embrace what brings joy and contentment. Some of the gifts of aging that bring me the greatest joy are caring far less about what others think of me, being less reactive to nonsense and understanding that my own instincts will take me further than the opinions of others. All told, aging isn’t so bad but there’s a better way and then there’s a way that will make me feel older. I’m trying to stay on the side of being older but feeling younger.
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