More signs of the times

For whatever reason the head of the turtle didn't come out and I want to get a pen and sketch one in but don't know how. I had seen some of the signs before but, as always, there is a chuckle to be had if your mood is a good one. The turtle reminds me of an elderly man who lives in the neighborhood and goes out every day to run. He has to be in his eighties and he shuffles along like he was the marathon runner of the year. I want to stop him and tell him to walk as the exercise would be just as good for him, in fact better, as he looks like he is about to fade off into the sunset. He is really in no condition to run, but it really is his decision to make and not mine. I just have to learn not to worry about him.

The signs although meant to be funny, like most comedy there is a sad side to it. I realize that for some hot flashes are far from funny and those vain enough to lie about their age are silly as it is just a number. It is how you feel inside and out that wins the game in the long run. Those who want to be sixteen forever pay an awful price of never growing up while those who muddle and fume over being old waste their the time they do have. We are strange creatures, some learned, some by habit, some willing to struggle to improve and grow and enjoy the fruits of their labors.

I have several friends in the last throws of cancer. They are to be admired and given a medal for bravery as they take one day as it comes and make it the best they can. Each one has been through several sessions of 'chemo' and survived this poison that kills the growing cells. It has to be hard on the body but it gives them one more day to appreciate their family and friends. The sun looks brighter and the rain and wind become friends they never knew they had. They are grateful for one more day of life. I feel very small when I gripe and groan over a few minor pains that are far from life threatening. the candle stays lit for them and the glow is to remind them that they are in good hands.

So today start musing about yourself. If you are afraid to grow old, don't be, it is a fact of life and it starts the day you are born. If you are 'hiding behind a bushel', stop it and give yourself permission to show what you really are made of. I've mused about this before and I firmly believe each of us has a talent, all we have to do is be wise enough to recognize it and then live up to your potential then you wont have time to worry about beauty and age. You will be too busy living the life you were meant to live. Today is a great day to start, make it a good one. Who said, "Go get 'em baby . . . knock their socks off." Someone smart enough to live.