Musings

Greetings ! When working as a caregiver , some folks proudly would show me photos from their youth . There were times when the past images bore little resemblance to their current forms . Delicate diplomacy was called for , but the disappointment on their faces was unmistakable . Fast-forward to a recent gathering of chosen family , when photos of my youth were shared . I was not unprepared for the questioning glances of the young ladies who whispered , "You ??". There is an interesting separation between the conscious awareness of self and the condition of the form that contains it . Aware of this in my 20s , I began to ask friends in their 70s and 80s about it . "When you first wake up in the morning , before you move , at what age are you ?" . After a surprised moment and genuine consideration , the consensus was 17 - 22 .I now share that perception . Those early images still resonate with my inner self , to the degree that reality can take one by surprise ! That inner self may not age , but it does come to a point where kindness to the outer self is requested . Stamina and strength , once boundless , must now be measured and expended wisely...definitely not a compromise willingly taken...rather grudgingly accepted ...sigh .