Getting Older

As I've gotten older I've enjoyed reading funny lists which share things that show you are getting older. And I usually laugh along and think, yes, I can relate to many of them. But today I've been doing some reflecting and I've developed my own list of twelve observations that make me realize how old I really am. I don't know if they are funny, but they certainly are true. So here goes. I know I am getting old ... (1) When my former high school students are now retiring ... (2) When I read that my physics prof who came to Susquehanna when I was a freshman is considering retiring next year - his 51st year at Susquehanna ... (3) When daily I read the obituaries in the newspaper (and not really to see if I am there) ... (4) When all the nurses and secretaries at our family medical practice call me by my first name - because I have been there so often ... (5) When people ask me if I am going to retire from an activity that I have directed for years - probably they think I should ... (6) When the daughter of a friend of ours is about to graduate from high school and I actually remember when the friend was born and said her first words ... (7) When I suddenly enjoy reading about history, especially local history, which I never cared for before ... (8) When my youngest son talks about what he wants as a gift - for his 40th birthday ... (9) When I purchase salt for the water softener knowing that our family is coming for dinner and I will have somebody to carry it to the basement for me ... (10) When the term "donut-hole" means medical insurance to me and not something related to a tasty food that I used to be able to eat - years ago ... (11) When my youngest grandson not only enjoys computer games, but is very good at playing them ... (12) When my family comes for a birthday dinner and two of the three family cars are driven by my grandsons. It will only be 13 more years until the third one is driven by a grandson - then I know I will be old! Getting older does have some disadvantages - your body no longer works like it used to, your wisdom and experience are no longer valued, younger folks have little time for you, you really aren't really needed anymore, and many of your closest friends have graduated to heaven. I guess that is why so many older people become bitter and critical. But there are also many advantages to getting older - you get senior citizens discounts and you get to support many different doctors. But in all seriousness, each day is a gift from the Lord and a chance to grow closer to Him. Each day gives you a chance to secretly intercede for others - and you now have the time to do it. We never know what a day will bring, but I am learning every day to say. "this is the day which the Lord has made and I will rejoice and be glad in it." Have a great day today!