I woke up with a spin on a Skid-Row song in my head: “58 and life to go.” Then, I remembered: “Dude, you’re 59!”
Today is my birthday. It is not a day that I care for celebration. It is a day for reflection and consideration. I recalled postings from the past in which I shared my reflections. These include “Reflections on turning 55,” “Now I am 56,” and “Now that I am 58.”
The question I have every April 30th is “am I better today than I was last April 30th?” I hope I am. I have (and continue to) approach this question from a perspective of “well-centered fitness.”
Spiritually. As with each passing year, I continue to see the Universe grow around me. Yes, I continue to struggle to live “I am third.” I am, however, increasingly aware of my need to allow and create space for the soul (my soul and souls of others) to speak. Last year, we were deep in the COVID-19 pandemic and a year without church. That grew to nearly two years, and I didn’t miss the churches were had been absent from. I did miss church (the act of worship) though. It took the push of my 16-year-old son (believe it!) to get us back to church. He led us to an exploration of the traditional Christian faiths. We landed rather quickly at Lake Grove Presbyterian where there is a palpable community and strong sense that it is where we belong at this point in the journey.
Physically. I still have aches and pains—the same aches and pains I have had for decades. I am progressing. I am deadlifting shy of 450 lb.—more than I ever have. I survived COVID-19 without getting sick—or ever testing positive. I attribute this to diet and physical activity. Physically, I still feel great. Really nothing has changed.
Intellectually. Yes, I am still ignorant. My knowledge has undoubtedly grown, but with learning comes a growing sense of not knowing. Time has given me the opportunity to learn and to grow intellectually. In my youth, I was much smarter. Today, though, I know so much more.
Emotionally. I still try to cultivate love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I practice “hevel.” I check my grattitude.
I recently bought a Ford Maverick HEV. Focusing on trying to get the best mileage possible has calmed me considerably on my commute to work. I am no longer looking at the clock. Instead, I am looking at the “EV Coach” to maximize my time in electric and charging mode—without interfering with other drivers (i.e., without driving too slowly—In fact, I have been exceeding the EPA estimates going around 70 on the highway.)
I am also teaching my son to drive. I am unexpectedly calm and patient. Maybe I am growing emotionally?
Socially. My true friends remain. That is the greatest birthday present one can ever receive. I have a phenomenal wife and two incredible children—the greatest gifts Life has given me. I still don’t need to be liked by others. I feel I am still accepted by those who matter most. We continue the “15-minute check-in,” and, yes, the kids keep joining in. My circle of remote friends continues to grow. Maybe this year, as we return to more in-person interactions, I will find more local community.
Fifty-nine is another mile-marker on a great journey. I don’t want to miss a moment. I don’t regret a minute of the past. I am looking forward to sixty and beyond.
Be your best today; be better tomorrow.
Carpe momento!