Today I turn eighty! How to make sense of attaining, what I have thought of as old age? I have outlived my father’s age and many of my friends. What will life be like in my eighties? My body has survived knee surgeries, a heart attack and arthritis. Thankfully my mind is as clear as it was and I have many blessings, not least a marriage of 51 years to Antoinette who has loved me, put up with my deficiencies, civilized me, stood by me and cared for me through thick and thin. She is my spiritual, intellectual and affectionate other half.

The virtues of old age include not having to fulfill obligations to others, not having to meet deadlines, setting my own priorities, slowing down and enjoying each moment. I can observe the activities of youth as a spectator, remembering my own without envy knowing that they too will grow old. I do not need to compete with anyone or prove anything. Success is measured in experiencing peace and contentment, appreciation of past achievements and maintaining the ability of being able to take care of myself, my wife, my living conditions and each day as it comes.

I do not expect perfect health. I am not planning to fill my life with doctor’s appointments even when they request them. I am realistic about the future and am not trying to control everything. I accept that I will not always feel well. The words of the psalmists comfort me.

“Do not cast me away when I am old; do not forsake me when my strength is gone. Since my youth, O God you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds. Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.” (Psalm 71:9,17,18)

“The length of our days is seventy years – or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:10,12)

“The righteous will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” (Psalm 92:14)

What fruit should I bear at this age? This is my prayer. I spend much time meditating on the Scriptures and praying for wisdom, strength, faith, hope and love. I write in my journal and share my thoughts on my blog. I correspond with friends and family. I read voraciously. I am grateful for all that I have been able to do in my lifetime. Life is an adventure. I am following Jesus in His Way. I do not know what lays before me in this world but I am confident that it leads to a greater reality and destination in eternity. “Our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.” (Romans 13;11,12) Thanks be to God for all his gifts.