The Joys of Getting Older

Much is said about all of the downfalls of growing older. Wrinkles, the inability to stay up late, my body being much more sore than I'd like it to be, and, oh yes - the gray hair. However, lately I've been ruminating over many things I'm thankful about that involve getting "up there" in age.

1. You get to understanding how your body works so much more. Things that used to cause me anxiety that my body does, is now something I'm used to, and therefore immune to worry. While it may be falling apart more, at least I'm used to the routine of it all.

2. Life is viewed as much less black and white. Yes, I have my values. Yes, I believe there are absolutes. But, yes, I think there is a whole lot more to any one perspective than often meets the eye. I just finished a book (fiction, of course) called FIRSTBORN. Essentially, the message behind the book is that we need people in our life that we disagree with - it keeps us humbled, constantly thinking, and aware that our point of view isn't the only point of view. I appreciate the developing of more perspective - and know I still have a long way to go in creating more.

3. This might sound weird, but there is more to feel satisfied about. I remember thinking about the "worst case scenarios" when my children were really little about "what if I died". How they may be left with not even a memory of me. But, the older I get, the more I know I've contributed - hopefully in the right way, and hopefully I'm leaving a legacy.

4. Relationships just get better and better- as they get deeper and deeper. (Especially with my kiddos- as the older they get, the more relate-able we can become).

5. The more you appreciate the people older than you - as you start to appreciate the road they've traveled a bit more.

6. For me - the confidence. No one knows my marriage, my children, my home, better than me (except John, and of course, God). In my 20's - oh, the insecurities. And not that they don't flare up here and there now, but such a different story. I am super thankful for this.

7. The wisdom gained. I can't say that it's all that intentional, but sermons, messages, and simply the stories of the inspirational people surrounding my life do start to pile up in this little brain of mine - and become more and more accessible as time goes on.

I think that's enough for now. What have you found to appreciate regarding getting older?