Time, Kindness, and Life's Surprises: Insights from a Senior
Life, as a senior, continues to amaze me with its unpredictable twists and turns. Two key realizations have profoundly shaped my attitude and approach to this chapter of my life.
Life is Astoundingly Brief
The speed at which life passes by is both astonishing and humbling. Sometimes, I am still in the moment of my youth, dancing the night away and joking with friends, even though those memories are 45 years old. At other times, I am a new mother, feeling the unbridled joy of holding my newborn. Yet, these moments blur together as time seems to speed up with each passing year. Life takes on an urgency that it never had before, much like how Usain Bolt races through a sprint. This realization is both a call to cherish every moment and an acknowledgment of the fleeting nature of our time on this earth.
The Universal Call for Kindness
Another profound insight is that kindness is the only response we should have to everything in life. While kindness may not solve every problem, it is the best approach we can take. Whether you face difficulties or enjoy smooth sailing, kindness remains a constant force that can light up even the darkest moments.
Exploring Human Desire for Freedom
A common thread that binds people around the world is their desire for freedom. It doesn't matter whether you are traveling through countries with different cultures or simply walking down familiar streets in your hometown; the yearning for freedom is universal. When given the opportunity, most people are kind and helpful. This shared desire for freedom serves as a reminder of our interconnectedness and the importance of mutual respect and understanding.
Challenges with Kindness
Despite the power of kindness, it is essential to recognize that it does not guarantee reciprocal kindness. Some individuals will perceive you as an easy target, while others may respond kindly in return. However, you cannot expect that everyone will treat you with the same level of kindness and respect. Embrace kindness as a guiding principle, but also understand that it is not a one-size-fits-all solution.
The Surprising Speed of Aging
One of the most surprising aspects of growing older is the realization of how quickly time passes. It takes me by surprise how much time has elapsed, making me appreciate every moment even more. This realization serves as a reminder to live fully in the present and not take any moment for granted.
Continuing to Utilize Work Skills in Retirement
Another pleasant surprise is how my work experience continues to influence my life even after retirement. I didn't initially think I would retain those skills, but they have proved invaluable. Just like a farmer will still value the earth after ceasing to work the fields, I find that my work skills are still essential in a non-corporate environment. I can still plan out my day, although less rigidly, and this planning helps me be more productive and happier.
Embracing Volunteering
Involvement in activities that align with my interests and talents has been a significant source of joy and fulfillment in my retirement. Volunteering for causes that matter to me allows me to use my work skills and contributes to a sense of purpose and value. By bringing my work experience to this new chapter, I feel a greater sense of accomplishment and happiness.
Valuing Community
Community has become even more important in my retirement. The work friends who were once a constant presence are now gone, and I find myself in an entirely new community. By actively engaging in my community and family, I have found a deeper sense of belonging and happiness. These connections are invaluable and have enriched my life in ways I never could have imagined.