Pieces of a PuzzleFinished Product?

I’ve had a pretty good life without having a title placed by my name. I’m pretty content about that. Nothing anyone needs to append to a greeting that makes me any happier than being known as a generally good ol’ guy.

Of course, we age, and I’m nearer to 70 than I could imagine.

After a car accident two years ago, my back was still aching this morning. I’ve not seen my granddaughter in over three years due to a pandemic scare that is still prevalent in someone’s mind. My family circle is getting smaller – my sister and dad are gone. There are times it’s easy to feel abandoned.

Wait! That’s a label, and I don’t need a label or a title appended to my name.

Even though my sister told me 20 years ago, “You can never quit being my big brother.” Okay. Maybe I need a label, title, or handle to be known as (think CB handle, if you know what I’m talking about.)

I’ve worked hard to be an ex-IT professional, have pastored for over 30 years, and still enjoy the role’s ministry. This year we will celebrate 49 years together, and that’s just a milestone that makes me think of Alaska – the 49th State!

Life is winding down on many fronts, but I don’t identify as retired!

What Do I Want

I still want much out of life, but the difference between that and being satisfied is what I aim for. There is a far cry between want and need, and I’ve learned the difference.

I want my mobility that was there before the accident.

Traveling would be nice, but I’m not sure how much I would enjoy it in this new modern world for the reasons previously listed.

My life is aiming for 100 years of age. Triple digits! That’s my goal! But mobility issues make me think I’ll be happy with whatever the good Lord gives me.

I’m angling for an old car with no computers or modern accessories except A/C—three on the tree or four on the floor.

Along the path, I’ve become used to saying my goodbyes to family, friends, pets, and others I enjoyed knowing throughout my life. I still think about them. Several friends have noted the older you get, the lonelier life becomes – most of your circle has passed on, and there’s no one to share the memories with.

With all the stuff I’ve collected through the years on the curbside, my kids tell me they will have a good bonfire. Can I live with that thought? I must because I’m still curating my “stuff.”

Essentially, I want my life to have made sense
and still, be useful the longer I live.

And You?

Surely your wishes and wants will fill your years with purpose, right?

Perhaps it’s the right thing to sit down and list your successes and desires. If you list your failures, you will dwell too long on the negative. I’m looking for positive affirmation!

Life is full of many pieces that can be constructed into your choice. Unlike a puzzle with only one certain outcome, there’s still time to improve your life.

Think about it. That’s valuable time well spent.

By Michael Gurley

Making Sense of Life, One Thought at a Time!