Youth

Today I had reinforced in my thinking that I am getting older. Now, that is a note that can be heard in many different places, but this one came on the campus of Vanderbilt University. I had decided that I would drop by the Divinity Library to do a little reading and maybe check out a book or two. When I went to the counter I was informed by a very helpful librarian that my card had expired--about three years ago! "Don't worry, all you have to do is go to the Card Center in the basement of the Student Center and get a new one," she said. She made it sound so easy. Well, after going in two wrong buildings and asking twice for directions I arrived at the Card Center. Yes, they could give me a card, but there was a form that I had to get at the library which necessitated another trip across campus.

What this all meant was that I had to go through the Student Center twice, both times packed with students. It was on that second trip that I began to notice the age of the people. Sure, the big majority would have to be college age, it is after all a university, but I was struck by the fact that I didn't see one person who looked like they might be on the high side of 30. Of course, I am on the high side of 30, in fact I'm closer to 60 than I am to 30! Realizing that you are the oldest person in a crowded room had an unexpected impact on me. As much as I might covet the opportunities those young people have before them, I wouldn't change places with them. I remember all too well what that period of my life was like. I am far more at peace now at 54 than I was at 24. It would be nice if I were not afflicted with the pains and strains of moderate age, but if it takes that to gain wisdom then it is worth the trade.

Someone said that youth is wasted on the young. Maybe so, but just about any period of your life can be wasted if you fail to enjoy it. That is what I hope to do with however much time I have left on planet earth.