On the Inside
One of the web journalists I follow regularly made the point that, despite aging (only a little in her case) and various changes in her life, "[she's] no different. [she's] still the same person . . . inside even if the outside looks a bit worn out, disheveled and overweight". I often think about the same issue. I say to myself that I still feel young, at least as long as I don't look in the mirror or try to do something physical. The process of aging seems to disconnect the mind from the body. Our bodies begin to weaken but our minds strengthen. As we learn more about what we want to do and how to do it it becomes physically harder.
Sometimes it's frustrating to age, to weaken regularly, to see mental progress devalued by loss of energy. However, there are compensations. I'm more efficient, I find myself enjoying things more, I'm more comfortable in many situations. Maybe some of the things I've learned are related to physical weakness. It takes a lot of energy to make and repeat the mistakes of the past. For example, my victory over anger may, in part, result from lack of the physical strength required to be angry. But whatever the reason, I feel better every day as I age, notwithstanding inexorable physical decline.
Since these pages are an attempt to help younger people avoid my mistakes I always look for the lessons in these thoughts. What would I have done differently if I knew how it would feel to age? It's hard to understand when you're at an age where time brings increased physical strength and energy, when aging means growth in all aspects of life. But I think there is a lesson to be drawn: Your life will be better if you use your strength rather than waste it. Don't waste your energy in negative emotions, such as anger or hostility. Don't miss opportunities to use your strength in positive pursuits, such as sports (golf), games, travel, and good, hard work. Remember also that you can minimize the loss of strength by taking better care of yourself at an early age.
Accept and profit from aging, maximize the mental benefits of aging and do your best to maintain physical strength as you age. Accept also that aging and its effects are inevitable and enjoy youth while you have it.
6-30-03
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