As We Age

What To Expect

We all age. There is no fountain of youth. If there were, I would have discovered it long ago. We all have to come face to face with our own immortality. The clock keeps ticking, the world keeps revolving. Nothing stops time. It shows in our faces, it lives in our hearts. The end creeps closer and closer stopping for no one. 

If we are lucky, we live to a ripe old age. If we are lucky, we have our health. We aren’t rotting away in a nursing home somewhere looking for our lost youth. Forever lingering in the past because the future holds nothing for us. 

Facing our fear of dying is a bridge we all have to cross at one point or another in our life. I’ve always said I don’t fear death. It isn’t something you can wish away. It’s imminent and actual. Casting a large shadow as we age. 

Such a Shame

To die and have not lived would be a shame, wouldn’t it? Don’t be a mouse in the corner. Get out and explore, travel, see places before you cannot. Before it’s too late and the grim reaper is knocking at your door. He will come knocking and he carries a big stick. 

When our time comes let’s all hope we die with dignity. Slip away peacefully in our bed. Go to sleep and never wake up. Sincerely, that is the only way I’d choose to go. Will it most likely happen, probably not. I’m hoping God doesn't have plans of a fiery car crash, or a drowning in store for me. Who knows what twist our lives will take. What’s waiting around the corner? 

Scary

Gary and I will hopefully be around for a while. Honestly you never really know do you. Fear of dying can turn into a phobia called thanatophobia. Thanatophobia can interfere in your everyday life. Only if you let it. It causes anxiety, stress and unnecessary worrying. You cannot change the fact that eventually you will die. So, why stress out about it? Although fear of death is quite common. Many people fret over it but do not let it become an obsession. I believe as you age the idea of dying becomes more accepting. You are at peace with the idea. 

Not one of us wants to die. It is just a natural part of life we need to abide by. The only way I wouldn’t mind dying is if I had dementia. If that happens, I will gladly accept death as an alternative.  Sitting in a care facility not knowing who I am or where I am is terrifying to me. Fingers crossed this isn’t what God has in store for me.

I'm Alright

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They say you should make yourself right with Jesus before you go. Accept him into your heart and he will forgive all your sins. Not being very religious my entire life may be problematic for me. I speak to God on my own terms. It’s good enough for me, and I haven’t heard him complain. Have I made my mark on this world? Who knows, after I pass there won’t be millions of people mourning me. I’m nobody important. Just someone trying to navigate this life as best I can. 

Don't be afraid of death. Embrace it, dance with it, walk side by side with it.  

Never bow down to it. 

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Live your life now, before you cannot.

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