Aug 17th, 2021: Aging Graciously

 

Banana is one of the most cherished fruit in Asia. Vietnamese use it in many of our deserts. This picture tells us that there are many stages in its existence. I was told recently by my family doctor that one banana a day is helpful for potassium levels. He is an Asian, goes figure.


Aging is the reality of human life. We might want to fight against it and slow it down. But it will arrive. An old banana does not look all that attractive, but it does not mean it has no use. Banana bread is a prime example of that. We might get old, but it does not mean that we have to stop making a difference in the lives of others. The disconnection between old folks and younger people has been a tremendous loss of wisdom. Generations can learn and share from one another, and yet it does not happen.


Sometimes I have to pinch myself to be aware that I am only two years away from "retirement". It is such an artificial time frame that has been set for us to remove ourselves from the workforce. As I wrote in the past, I won't be retired. I just hope that God has a plan to re-assigned me to some other ideas He has in mind.


Our body and our mind will indeed slow down in some ways. I was excited when I talked with a friend about different ideas we can consider when we walk away from our current assignment. We both are looking at these opportunities with imagination.


A banana might be old, but its taste will remain when you know how to use it in baking instead of eating it fresh. Our contribution to society might not be that tangible, but its intangible impact can be tremendous. Wisdom and understanding are their essences.


And now, in my old age, do not set me aside. Do not forsake me now when my strength is failing.

~ Psalm 71:9


And I will still be carrying you when you are old. Your hair will turn gray, and I will still carry you. I made you, and I will carry you to safety.

~ Isaiah 46:4


Wisdom belongs to the aged, and understanding to the old.

~ Job 12:12

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