Week 17 2013 Age Matters

“Will you still need me, will you still feed me, when I’m sixty-four?”  This line from an old Beatles song became reality for me on May 1st.  Fortunately, I’m married to a woman who would answer in the affirmative at any age.  The Beatles released this song shortly after I turned eighteen.  At that age I couldn’t imagine being sixty-four.  When I looked upon people who were in their sixties, I considered them to be nearly ancient.  Over the ensuing years I have almost been convinced that age doesn’t matter.  We’ve all heard the cliches, “You’re only as old as you feel” or, “Age is a state of mind.”  While there is some truth to these statements, the years have taught me that age does matter.

With age comes experience, along with a failing body.  It is often assumed that old age is also synonymous with a failing mind.  While there are those who suffer from dementia or alzheimers, there are many who enjoy the same thought processes they had as a young person.  Unless I’m deluded, I fall into the latter category.  My body is deteriorating around a still fertile mind.  Interests have changed, along with priorities.  Thus, I don’t often think about the same things I did as a young father or a working man.  Instead of thinking about the next lesson plan, I now think about the next pen I will turn, or the next place we will visit.  Instead of thinking about what my daughters’ needs might be during the next week, I find myself thinking about the activities my grandkids are involved in.  As to experience, it is always a great teacher at any age.  So, my life’s experiences have taught me many lessons.  What they haven’t done is make me perfect.  In fact, I seem to be as far from perfection as I was at the start.

Thus, age has its pros and cons.  As complicated as it can be, it is important to realize that there are some areas where age is a great benefit.  Most cultures have recognized this and exalt the aged for their wisdom.  Our founding fathers in the United States recognized the value of age when establishing guidelines for our leaders.  Our presidents are men who have the benefit of years behind them.  On the other hand, we must remember that these who have the wisdom that comes with age are still human and subject to the same imperfections as anyone.  Respect them for their wisdom and experience, gain from their sharing, but don’t deify them.

I am enjoying old age, and I look forward to enjoying it for many more years.  While perfection will continue to elude me, it is my prayer that I will improve and better reflect the One who has granted me the blessing of a long life.