Aging … it isn’t for sissies. I have crossed into the other side of life. My old body just doesn’t quite do what it used to. I can tell it every year I go to the fair. It gets a little harder to walk up that big hill. I can’t quite do that 14+ hours out there like I used to. And the day after … well, that is a day to definitely rest. But I go anyway. I run around like a kid and do as much as I can. I feel like a kid even though this old body doesn’t quite do all it used to.
I would like to think I am aging gracefully. Continuing to be thankful for all I can do and gentle with myself when things are a little more difficult. I don’t want to be so stuck on what I can’t do that I miss out on the blessings of what I can do.
That attitude is something that comes from within. It comes from believing I am young and my days on earth are a gift. I know that when my time comes to leave this earth and go on to heaven, my aches and pains will no longer be relevant. What is important is what I am feeling on the inside—in my heart. What matters is how I am treating people, animals, and this earth.
I believe we are called to give our very best while we are here. I believe that my little physical ailments are nothing compared to the glory I will see someday. I believe love is the key that can bring joy to those around me. So, I will encourage you today to live and experience the joy that the Holy Spirit has for you. He lives in you. You can experience life from the inside out.
Reflection:
- When was a time you felt your earthly body couldn’t do what you wanted it to do? Maybe it was during a workout or some kind of ailment you experienced.
- How does it make you feel when you think about enjoying life from the inside out? In other words, allowing joy to be the driver vs. physical ability?
- In what ways can you rely on the Holy Spirit to renew you each and every day?