I recently celebrated my sixty-second birthday. I am rather proud to be 62 when so many people do not want to discuss their age. I do not know why we are so hesitant to share our age when it is a badge of honor.
I always hoped I would make it past 59. You see, both of my biological parents died at the age of 59, so living out loud in my 60s is an absolute blessing.
There are so many things you learn as you grow older, especially as it relates to what really is important. So many of us get caught up in getting all we can, canning all we get, and then just sitting on the can.
Life is about sharing and helping others. As we get older, we should share the wisdom and knowledge we have accrued over our lifetime to help those coming behind us have it a little easier.
During our youth we get so caught up in who we are and who we think we are supposed to be. As we age, if we paid attention to the lessons we should have learned, we begin to understand our meaning, message, and mission (purpose). Learning these lessons help us to walk this journey a little less frazzled and hopefully a little more confident.
Growing older gracefully also brings a calmness to the circles we walk in. Others will often want to know how you can stay so calm when there is so much chaos all around.
Generation after generation experience issues such as racism, classism, power struggles, and other world issues just to name a few, but one thing I know is God is still in control and on the throne. We must hold onto our faith and trust in Him. Time gives us this reassurance. Good will ultimately prevail.
What is really important to me is my relationship with Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior; My relationship with my family; helping others when I am able; enjoying the world God created through traveling; enjoying a nice meal with friends and family; and making sure at the end of the day I have done my best to live my life out loud and living the purpose God has called me to live.
Sometimes this is not easy, but as my grandmother would say, just keep laying down and getting up, eventually you will become a little older and a little wiser and you will come to understand what really is important in life.
As I continue journey around the sun and get a little older, I understand the importance of being grateful for each day God gives me on this earth. It is true that we must work to make a living and take care of ourselves and our families, but I have learned to relax a bit more when things do not go my way and when funds may run a little low because I know God will always take care of me and my family. It is important for us to do our best and then leave the rest up to Him.
I encourage everyone to continue to strive to reach their season of greatness in this life, but do not get so caught up in the goal that you miss the journey. There are so many precious moments in between.
I am just glad I have finally slowed down long enough to appreciate the things in life that really matter and are important. With that in mind, it is time for me to pause and go play with my grandson. After all, they are little for only so long, I do not want to miss these precious moments.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on.
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is a life strategist, coach, consultant, author, and speaker.
