Yes, as my dad always says “Chronology is inexorable.” Time marches on. Another day by, and another year by…. And they seem to go quickly.
I like to write a post on my birthday because it causes me to stop time for a moment, to look back, and to think about what might be ahead. A birthday is a ‘marker’ of time.
Today is mine.
Thinking back, when I was a teenager I thought anyone in their late 60’s was really, really old. And, of course back then it seemed so far away. Truly as a teenager I thought 40 seemed old. So, as I sit here at the my present age, way beyond 40, I have several thoughts…
First, I think I am hanging in there pretty well. Physically and mentally. I don’t know how much longer I can sustain being well but I hope it’s for many more years. I know one accident, or one medical event, can change everything. So, I am immensely thankful for being here – in this body and still using my brain. I was born with good genes (thank you mom and dad) and I have a hubby that has stressed, and occasionally pushed me, on how important physical activity is. I’m a person of ‘moderation’ and it has served me well to this point.
I found line dancing 2 years ago and it has been a wonderful way to do something aerobic, to use the brain (what step comes next?), and to be uplifted by great music and friendships.
I have continued my push to always be reading. I caught the bug back when my daughters were in high school and I was the ‘taxi mom,’ and I always had a book in the car. It helped pass the time during their music lessons and such, but it also opened my mind to different people, different times, and different lands.
As I have aged I have also found music – and for me, really music is the icing on the cake of life. Music makes it all sweeter. I love attending concerts, and I am constantly in awe of the talent of musicians. I play just enough to know how hard it can be and how ‘gifted’ the best are to be able to touch my soul. I have never gone to a Broadway musical, or a country music concert, or a musical worship service, without feeling a sense of awe. Music reaches in – and emotes. It is not an extra in my world – it is essential to my happiness.
I am also so thankful for my ever-growing family!! The year ahead for me will bring another granddaughter – and how lucky and blessed I am! I decided long ago that I was going to be a vey active grandparent because those little ones bring such joy!! And, as I know, time marches on – and they don’t stay little for long. Now is the time to spend it with them.
I’m also thankful for my core group: hubby, my daughters and their spouses, and my bestie. They are stuck with me! For better or worse. During all the times of life.
Turning another year older is a time to wonder about the future too. Will I make a difference in this world? Once I’m gone will people speak well of me? How can I at this age do something, big or small, to better a situation? To help someone in need? To give back for all my blessings?
I am a Christian, and a believer in the love and grace of Jesus Christ. I know heaven is not earned, but God wants me to be a disciple, and to reach out to help when I can. It is a response to all He has created. I have taken that to heart all my life. I certainly have not done as much I could and I have let ego get in the way, etc. but years ago, when wondering what my purpose on earth was, I knew it was to live as an example of the love and the hope of God. My faith is strong, although recents years have left me questioning some things. But questioning is good. It’s how I come to a higher understanding.
At this age, with young grandchildren, I worry about these times – and what will come next. There is so much hate, dis-information, division, and confusion out there. But, I also know enough about history to see humanity has gotten through some pretty tough times in the past. I still remain an optimist – even though I want to shake some people sometimes!!
Birthdays are kind of like a personal “New Year’s Day” so I think about any resolutions I may make. I don’t strive for a better life – because I’ve really got the best one already. So, I will work on continuing to be a grateful person, to accept and see the good in all people (not easy on some days), and to be kind. As I have aged I have become less judgmental, and I am not vindictive. You can call me out when I fail.
I enjoy a good discussion. I enjoy some wine sitting on my screened porch. I realize that often simpler is better. Less stress is wonderful. Nothing is permanent. Life goes on.
Birthdays are a yearly reminder of that.
Marla’s Musings 