I’ve been reminded that it’s been a long time since my last journal entry and ‘Stones’ post. The last few months have been a busy time but ‘Busy’ comes in different packages. Some leave you smiling but others are no fun at all. Movie Star Betty Davis (1908-1989) gets credit for this ubiquitous observation; “Old age ain’t for sissies.” Leon Trotsky (Russian Revolutionary) shared a similar revelation; “Old age is the most unexpected of all things that can happen to a man.” He had big plans and plenty of time but surprise-surprise; he woke up one day too old to keep up. The spirit was willing but the flesh was weak.
I’m old but I saw it coming. I can’t speak for others but the future is now and I don’t want to squander it on making plans. One’s days are numbered and thankfully that number is unknown. It makes the present all the more important. So I’m writing again but too much time on the computer is a stressor and I need to be moving my feet.
Max Ehrmann was an American writer, poet and philosopher from the first half of the last century. He is best known for a poem he wrote in the late 20’s titled ‘Desiderata’. It’s an easy read, I recommend it. Toward the end he advises, “Be gentle with yourself.” I’ve learned to do that without a prompt but it’s also a good example to set for others. In so-many words he assures us that the universe is unfolding exactly as it should and to be at peace with God, however you perceive it. As I age I find some of my peers relating to Ehrmann’s insight. I don’t formalize prayer as I don’t recognize a traditional God but I think Ehrmann’s poem makes righteous meaning any time, under any set of circumstance.
My granddaughter got married day before yesterday; it was planned to perfection. The venue was small but there were enough chairs to seat everyone. Long white dress with a train, flowers in her hair. I know enough of the backstory to appreciate how weddings can soften old grudges, bitter enemies agree to share the moment. What started out as a choreographed ritual transitioned through a cascade of photographs, an awesome dinner then toasts and speeches and concluded much later, the bride dancing with all of the significant men in her life. When I left the dance floor was crowded, the music loud and my side of the family carrying on with strangers as if they were new-best friends. I even danced with my own daughter (the bride’s aunt) did some turns dips and a whoop-de-doo with no consequence.
So here it is the end of May, Labor Day weekend. Out-of-towners heading home, locals gearing up for a short work week. On their way to New Orleans the honeymooners are making memories. Weddings are a highpoint for good will, high hopes and new beginnings. The collective euphoria won’t last long and gravity will reassert its rule. From my perspective I would default back to ‘Desiderata’ and a truism that I have come to trust; “Life is short: eat dessert first.”
I’m old but I saw it coming. I can’t speak for others but the future is now and I don’t want to squander it on making plans. One’s days are numbered and thankfully that number is unknown. It makes the present all the more important. So I’m writing again but too much time on the computer is a stressor and I need to be moving my feet.
Max Ehrmann was an American writer, poet and philosopher from the first half of the last century. He is best known for a poem he wrote in the late 20’s titled ‘Desiderata’. It’s an easy read, I recommend it. Toward the end he advises, “Be gentle with yourself.” I’ve learned to do that without a prompt but it’s also a good example to set for others. In so-many words he assures us that the universe is unfolding exactly as it should and to be at peace with God, however you perceive it. As I age I find some of my peers relating to Ehrmann’s insight. I don’t formalize prayer as I don’t recognize a traditional God but I think Ehrmann’s poem makes righteous meaning any time, under any set of circumstance.
My granddaughter got married day before yesterday; it was planned to perfection. The venue was small but there were enough chairs to seat everyone. Long white dress with a train, flowers in her hair. I know enough of the backstory to appreciate how weddings can soften old grudges, bitter enemies agree to share the moment. What started out as a choreographed ritual transitioned through a cascade of photographs, an awesome dinner then toasts and speeches and concluded much later, the bride dancing with all of the significant men in her life. When I left the dance floor was crowded, the music loud and my side of the family carrying on with strangers as if they were new-best friends. I even danced with my own daughter (the bride’s aunt) did some turns dips and a whoop-de-doo with no consequence.
So here it is the end of May, Labor Day weekend. Out-of-towners heading home, locals gearing up for a short work week. On their way to New Orleans the honeymooners are making memories. Weddings are a highpoint for good will, high hopes and new beginnings. The collective euphoria won’t last long and gravity will reassert its rule. From my perspective I would default back to ‘Desiderata’ and a truism that I have come to trust; “Life is short: eat dessert first.”
