Today is my 54th birthday. Time seems to be accelerating. By the title of this post, one might think I am depressed by my progressing age. Quite the contrary. I embrace my age. While “blue” is often used as an emotional expression, I can’t help but think of it as a cheerful color. Presently, after much rain, the skies are blue. This is positive.
Blue is a calm and friendly color. It is relaxing—think ocean. Depressing, it is not.
Fifty-four carries years of experiences, memories, and growth experiences. Regrets? Sure, I have a few. Would I change anything? Not a thing.
If I were to change even the slightest experience or decision, who knows to what extent it would change my trajectory or that countless others? I’d rather think that my path is just what is should be and the interactions that I have had over the years have served a purpose for me and/or the others in my life. I have caused hurt and been hurt, but changing such events would have lost their effects. No, I am content to just look back with gratitude.
I have often heard the question: “What advice would you give your younger self?” My answer in “None.” I prefer to leave my younger self to learn the lessons it learned and leave the advice to my parents, teachers, friends, family, and other mentor. Truthfully, their advice and the lessons learned have served me well enough.
If I have lessons that I can give to my younger self, then I have the tools for change moving forward. I have the lessons to pass on to the next generation.
The present is fine with me. I look forward to new opportunities. I get to make mistakes and have successes. I get to fail and to learn. The past carried me to the present. The future waits. Carpe momento!