As We Grow Older…

As we grow older, we must get smaller. In all ways. Spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically, and materially. Let's break that down.

Spiritually/Emotionally

The spiritual journey takes time. Years.  I have found that as I have focused on spiritual growth, my sense of self-importance lessens. My ego is smaller. I have become rearranged emotionally.

Thoreau said that “man is richest whose pleasures are the cheapest." I add that a person is happiest when their ego is smallest.

Mentally

We enjoy new luxuries—the luxury of time. Now that we need not concern ourselves with professional advancement, we can read and socialize exclusively for pleasure.

Physically

Smaller is better. Better for our knees and back and hips and for our general health. Blood pressure improves, sugars are lower, heart attack is lessened. And cigarettes? None.

Walking is exercise. Gardening is exercise. Housework is exercise. One may reconsider the definition of exercise as one gets older. Fewer calories equals less weight. (fc=lw).

Materially

Thoreau’s wisdom bears repeating: “Man is richest whose pleasures are the cheapest."