Settling In

Settling into old age, that is. And yes, one not only does this, but it is also automatic. You don’t have to make a conscious decision, but best you do when your thinking catches up with your doing.

When you realize you have done this, several things happen quickly.

First, you appreciate being retired and having the ability of pretty much spending your time the way you want to.

Second, when what you spend your time doing becomes onerous, you realize you don’t have to do it. That makes it possible to rethink your commitment to the thing you are doing. Most of the time you recommit to it, and all is happiness. On the other hand, should you conclude that you need to divest yourself of the onerous task, this can be complicated and trying.

Third, when # two, above, turns out badly, you discover that others will help you keep your focus on doing the things that make sense and satisfy you, and getting rid of the things you truly don’t need to be doing. Besides, if you don’t do that, you end up not doing the great job you want to do. Your interest wanes with the energy it takes to do the task in the first place.

Fourth, you discover new things to do that you didn’t have time for before. This enriches life experience in many ways and is a fine reward. This may create an entirely new chapter of life you never imagined.

Fifth, new acquaintances appear. With it, whole new network circles enlarge your sphere of experience. Relationships and meanings erupt magically. Suddenly we realize we know more than we had ever conceived.

Sixth, the value of things is replaced with the value of relationships and thinking. Thoughts, ideas, creative connections and new meanings come from that. We are now aware we are in the midst of a maelstrom of creation.

Seventh, oh let’s quit here. Isn’t this enough? Aren’t we amazed at the meaning and purpose of life of which we are now aware? A moment of peace is an opportunity to think of new things. A short space of time becomes a chance to meet someone unknown and build a friendship. Food, too, becomes more enjoyable. The latter surprises me still. The simple egg is more delicious now than it was 15 years ago. A steak is not as good as a very well-prepared hamburger dripping with juices and melting cheese. A cup of coffee properly brewed becomes a universe of flavor. A casserole imagined is tasted well before it is cooked.

There are many realizations encountered on this journey of aging. Perhaps the most surprising one is the diminishing of death. It is such a reality it is not feared. It awaits its final curtain. Meanwhile, there is so much more we appreciate and delight in. And we do.

April 15, 2024

 

 

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