The first mirrors date back to as early as 4,000 B.C. Prior to that a reflection could be seen in water or from a polished metal on occasion. Later, they were copper and typically round. I imagine the object was not shown with a great deal of clarity. The older I get, the more I wish for one of the original mirrors, rather than ours which unkindly show every wrinkle and crease.
For those of us in the winter of our years, I have discovered that most of our lives are seen in the rear view mirror. The bulk of our existence has already gone by. If this is not true of you “yungins”, please enjoy every aspect of your journey as it gets swallowed up by years much faster than you can comprehend. Soon the old folks (or, as my son’s friend refers to us: the geries – geriatrics) will become your peers.
But, for those of us who have “crossed over” into retirement and old age, there is more behind us than ahead. Obviously, “man knows not his time”(Ecclesiastes 9:12) but those 60 and above are pretty sure they are well past halftime in the game. Some of us have even fallen into Overtime.
We look ahead – at what? We’re moving through fog as we really don’t know what’s around the corner. How many more curves will we take? When will we run out of road? This can happen to anyone at any age, but the thoughts of it tend to come to those more likely to experience it sooner.
By now you’re saying, “Why am I reading this today? There’s enough out there that’s depressing!”
I’m reminded of a quote I referred to once before by Charles Swindoll in which he said, “As long as you have life and breath, you have purpose.” We may wonder what that is. We aren’t raising a family anymore. We aren’t working and accomplishing something constructive on a daily basis. But, I once had an elderly friend (probably my age now!) who could no longer make visits or physically do much. So, she wrote letters to prisoners at Perryville Prison here in the Phoenix area. She had a lengthy prayer list and kept it updated. The recipients of her letters and those for whom she prayed were blessed beyond measure.
What do we do with this in-between time we’re given? Sit around and complain that “life is over”? Yogi Berra once said, “It ain’t over till it’s over!” A profound statement that reminds us not to give up. What are your talents or abilities? Can you share that talent with someone? What can you make that you might then give away? How about giving some of your time? Even a phone call can make a difference in someone’s day.
Yes, most of life may be in the rear view mirror. But, the windshield is bigger than the small mirror to the side. There’s still much to be done. More opportunities are on the horizon. The view ahead may be foggy. But, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. And, that same light offers help and hope for those in-between days.
“Make the most of every opportunity…” (Colossians 4:5)
“…forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)
Love this! 😁
Pressing on! Your words always encourage me forward with purpose, Teri.
Thank you!!
A very good reminder! Now, just looking for the energy to do what I see in the windshield… LOL. I appreciate your insights and perspectives! Thank you.
Thx for the encouragement and conviction! Needed!
Thanks again Teri….for the reminder!! It’s a good word…
Good reminder. Too many people spend too much time focusing on the past. It’s done! Go forward! God will lead the way.
Confirms I need to keep doing what I am doing.
Confirms I need to keep doing what I am doing.
Oh goodness, what a beautiful collection of thoughts. I love the contrast with looking through the windshield vs the side view mirror. Thank you so much for sharing your insightful and uplifting thoughts.
May we always remember that many games are won in the last quarter. Even in the last few minutes of the last quarter. Keep pressing on.