Grateful For …

As we age, we can take it as a negative, but these Thanksgiving as I could not be with my family I reflected on my life, aging as I will in two years be eligible for benefits given to those 62+. There are things to be grateful for as we get older. What could they be?

Wisdom for one, assuming we have learned life’s lessons. As we get older that means more life experiences, likely more mistakes made, but also hopefully greater wisdom and understanding. We hopefully have a better understanding of self, of our dynamics in relationships, can spot red flags quickly etc…As I look back I can see patterns in my relationship dynamics that were a result of childhood stuff, of insecurities that came from that, but now with greater appreciation of my own worth etc…I can make better choices.

Another benefit is that relationships that are positive can be deepened. Once you understand the toxic ones, can cut loose from them with maturity, and wishing them well I have a friend, was a neighbor of mine in Manhattan before I moved to the Bronx and we are still close and the relationship keeps growing. One can as one gets older really appreciate who is there for you. That’s a true blessing to have that and that insight.

While you gain appreciation for the past, for what shaped you ect.. you also learn to enjoy the present moment. You learn to be in the moment while still understanding that present moment actions have consequences. Within that awareness you are still able to enjoy the present because you aren’t so focused on tomorrow and can enjoy today.

You also can really appreciate the legacy you have built, perhaps also your family legacy of impact on your own life and that of others. You can really appreciate what you have created, built so on and so forth. It’s a beautiful thing to look back and see what you have built. You also realize that being a few months away from 60 doesn’t mean you can’t begin creating a legacy, perhaps a new legacy. It’s full of possibilities, especially as one has greater life experience an hopefully wisdom.

Namaste