How do you know when you are old?

When I was young, I remember looking at old people and wondering when that magic switch got turned on that made us like them. Seriously, I thought that you had to turn into to someone else. I fact when I was in school a thirty year old would have easily fit the bill as an old person to me. Now that I am a few year south of 40 I am starting to see more evidence of the inevitable.

Last week I was working with Redd on a few licks for a Lincoln Brewster song. As I talked him through the notes and progressions it dawned on me that even though I could identify every note, and my mind was willing, my hands did not seem to want to express that on the fret board like they used to. I have always done well copying other people and their guitar solos. But I rarely play lead guitar anymore so these notes were not easy for me. Am I off of my game or truly washed up?

The boys make me feel old most of the time. After all, my oldest is in High School already. In fact, one of the kids in youth group last night is 18 and graduates on Friday. I immediately thought, “wow 18 years ago I graduated”. Where did the time go?

If you had asked me how old I felt during the first Ultimate Frisbee season 2 years ago, I would have told you that I feel really old. My body was not handling it well. I felt wore out and beat down. But by the start of the second season, I had lost over 50 pounds and I was in much better shape. So I didn’t feel the wear and tear on my body at all, I felt young again. At least my body did.

So what is it? What is the secret to staying young?

Is it being able to do what you have always done?
Is it a state of mind?
Is it the shape of your body?

Whatever it is, I am in serious doubt that we all agree. My picture last night on my 365 project reflects the song lyrics of George Jones saying “I don’t need your rocking chair”



How do you feel? I would love to hear some feedback from you. I think these say it best…..

Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter. ~ Mark Twain

Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional. ~ Chili Davis