Age Matters

Today, I feel old. Normally, my age doesn't bother me. But today I was sitting around with one of the girls in my chemistry class, talking about our mutual love of books. Somehow we got on the topic of high schools and she asked me when I graduated. I avoided the question. Eventually, I felt guilty about being rude and I told her I graduated in 1995. She said wow, I was born in 1991. YIKES!!! According to the teen mom pop culture right now, I could be her mom.

So I've been reflecting on age today. I always wanted to be older. I was born with what some people call an "old soul". Quiet, introspective, with wisdom beyond my years (at least for some things :). Added to that the fact that my husband is desperate to turn forty so he won't be considered a young whippersnapper preacher anymore (someone once told him a 'real' preacher was 50 with gray hair and a pot belly). I am blessed with a baby face that makes me look younger, so much so that when Mike and I got engaged when I was 24, his extended family asked if I was legal yet. Heh heh. Most of the people I have become friends with since we've been in ministry have been older than me by a couple of years. My friend Rica threw me a "welcome to adulthood" party when I turned thirty. It was great.

So why do I feel old today? I don't feel physically bad. I have stress levels, like everyone else, but as an adult I have learned how to handle stress and prioritize my schedule (kids tend to force this learning curve quickly). I know it will get a lot worse once my kids get older and asking about 'the good old days'. But you know, I'm kind of looking forward to it. I remember posing those same questions to my parents and grandparents. And you know what, it wasn't pity I felt for them. I was fascinated. When people in older generations reflect on how different their childhood was, sure there are some things that have improved over time, but with lack of technology came a slower pace, more time to invest in relationships, a greater reliance on someone other than ourselves. And its only going to get worse from here. Today is our "good old days". So let's appreciate them for what they are and make the best of them. Spend time with family and friends, and God. Age gracefully, and have nothing to regret at the winter of our lives.