Inspiration
August 9, 2009 in Musings
This summer has been such a blessing to those of us who don’t particularly like hot days. Lately it has felt like we lived on the coast; more akin to the weather in Seattle or the Oregon coast. The rain and cooler days have been great for the soul and led to some great porch sitting. Gratitude for the kindness and beauty of nature is overflowing at my house.
Today I went to the Farmer’s Market at the Haymarket in downtown Lincoln. There was an elderly gentleman performing next to the train station, playing his saxophone along with pre-recorded big band music for the crowds. He was moving with the beat, and tapping his foot. I was transfixed and absolutely delighted as I watched him play his instrument with style and grace. You could see his passion and love for his music, and I was newly inspired.
It strikes me that I have a choice as to how I fill out the skin of old age that is transforming the body I live in. I can pursue the passions of my life, and grow old with grace, or I can be fearful and frightened of the future. I can recognize that there is beauty in curiousity, humor and vitality, and practice them daily, or I can worry about the wrinkles and white hair.
I want to be the person people watch with delight as I make my music in the world. I am looking forward to being the wide eyed explorer of knowledge previously unknown, continuing to grow both personally and professionally well into old age. The challenge of staying physically fit and eating well, breaking habits of a lifetime that no longer serve me, is a contest I can’t wait to win. Learning to love myself, and recognize I do not need to rely on external sources for love is an irresistible concept I am eager to embrace.
Getting older adds depth to life and allows you to realize you can’t take yourself too seriously. Life is great fun and we should all be laughing out loud at the joy of living it. It is time to savor each moment, lingering over them, as we would a good meal. This stage of life allows us time to reflect, away from others to balance our inner thoughts and feelings. Because of this, we are a source of balance and encouragement for others.
Perhaps that is why grandparents are over fifty!
