A Birthday Reflection: 3 Reasons Life is Good

I’m getting old. 

Now that I’m fifty-four, there’s no denying that I’ve become what my younger self considered “really old.” Mid-fifties? That was ancient. 

Perspective changes with time. I do not feel old. Am I a little slower? Tire more easily? Have a few new aches and pains? Sure. But this season is pretty amazing, and I wouldn’t go back to my younger days. 

I reflected on why I feel energized and hopeful lately, and here’s what I came up with:

1. MY RELATIONSHIPS ARE GOOD

My wife Lisa and I just celebrated our 32nd anniversary. She’s my best friend, and I’m looking forward to however many more years we have together. I’m having a blast interacting with my adult kids, who are married to great partners and established in careers they love. I have long-time friends that I see regularly, and my relationship with God is ever evolving.

It hasn’t been easy. Marriage is hard. Raising kids is hard. Nurturing friendships is hard. Relating to God is hard. But the years of effort we’ve all put in together is bearing a lot of fruit and has been totally worth it. 

2. I’M EXCITED ABOUT MY CAREER

Starting a new career in my fifties was daunting, especially in the highly competitive and uncertain field of novel writing. I spent far too long dragging my feet. Coming up with excuses. Rationalizing away my dream.

Until I didn’t. With a helpful push from my wife, I finally jumped in, and after long years of effort, my first two books are on shelves. I just completed my first book tour and have two more books coming out in the next seven months. While challenging, being an author feels fresh, energizing, and life-giving.

3. I’VE MAINTAINED HEALTHY HABITS

Personal development is something I’ve pursued for as long as I can remember. Sometimes it’s lead me down harmful alleys as I got too obsessed with a routine or exaggerated my own self importance. I often clung to old habits when life seasons changed and resisted embracing new patterns. 

But I’ve kept trying, kept learning, kept growing. It has served me well. Physically, I could lose some weight, but I’m happy with with my mobility and energy level thanks to my daily stretching and workout routine. I sometimes struggle with anxiety, but I’m usually upbeat and at peace thanks to daily mediation and prayer. Taking a day off each week to do things I enjoy does wonders for my perspective and positivity.

Do you feel invigorated, energized, and passionate about your life or would tired, flat, and bored be more accurate descriptors? Be honest with yourself. Invest in important relationships. Pursue your passions. Develop and maintain healthy habits. If you do, you’ll discover a renewed life, and you’ll take another step toward Becoming Yourself.