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The Shifting Sands of Time
A Personal Reflection on Aging

As we grow older, our perception of time undergoes a profound transformation. This journey from childhood to adulthood brings with it a mix of nostalgia, wisdom, and a newfound appreciation for life's fleeting moments.
The Endless Wait vs. The Blink of an Eye
Remember those Christmas Eves as a child? The anticipation of opening presents the next day made time crawl at an excruciatingly slow pace. It felt like forever. Fast forward to today, and suddenly I'm approaching 37 years old. The contrast is stark. It seems like just yesterday when we had our first child, and in the blink of an eye, she's ten years old. Time, once a slow river, has become a rushing torrent.
Letting Go and Growing Up
Maturity brings with it the wisdom to know when to let go. I used to think I had to do everything just because I could. Now, I've learned that even if I can do something well, it doesn't always mean I have to or should do it. This realization has been liberating, allowing me to focus on what truly matters.
Birthdays: From Excitement to Reflection
Birthdays have lost their childhood magic. I often forget exactly how old I am because, in the grand scheme of things, it doesn't seem to matter much anymore. However, I suspect turning 40 will be a significant milestone, perhaps bringing a renewed awareness of age.
Advice to My Younger Self
If I could go back in time, I'd tell my younger self to take more risks. Start that business. Travel to weird places. Try new things. Don't worry so much about money; there's a lifetime ahead to earn it. These words echo with the wisdom of missed opportunities and the recognition that youth offers a unique freedom to explore and experiment.
Health: A New Priority
My approach to health has undergone a dramatic shift. In my 20s, I was overweight and felt sorry for myself. But shortly after my 31st birthday, following an overseas deployment, I completely changed my life. I started tracking my food and exercising regularly. Now, I'm in better shape than I've been in a long time, possibly ever. This transformation stems from a growing awareness of mortality and the desire to reduce health risks associated with being overweight. (Also stopped drinking alcohol July 27, 2024)
The Poignant Passage of Time
Recently, I've become acutely aware of time's passage when looking at my oldest daughter, who's rapidly turning into a young lady. It's a bittersweet reminder of how quickly children grow up. Additionally, observing peers who've prioritized careers over family, only to regret lost time with loved ones, serves as a powerful lesson about life's priorities.
A New Appreciation
With age comes a deeper appreciation for health. It's sobering to realize that some high school classmates have already passed away. This stark reality underscores the preciousness of life and the importance of taking care of ourselves.
Embracing the Journey
As we age, our relationship with time evolves. What once seemed endless now flies by in an instant. Yet, this shift brings with it valuable lessons and a deeper appreciation for life's moments. While we can't slow down time, we can choose to live more fully, prioritize what truly matters, and embrace the wisdom that comes with each passing year.
In the end, aging isn't just about the passage of time; it's about how we choose to spend the time we have. It's about making memories, taking care of ourselves, and cherishing the relationships that matter most. As we continue on this journey, let's remember to appreciate each moment, for time, in all its mystery and swiftness, is the most precious gift we have.
Until next time,
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