Random Thoughts
We cannot become what we need to be by remaining what we are.”
– Max de Pree
Disclosure: This post contains some affiliate links. I only include items that I would use (or gift to others). If you use a link to buy something, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission. Thank you.
Turning 60 – and so the thoughts begin.
Where did the time go?
Why am I here?
And, who am I becoming?
For as far back as I can remember (30, 40, 50) my life has been about seeking. Trying to figure out why I’m here and what I’m here to do. Always wanting to feel a connection to something.
And that feeling has been stronger over the last couple of years – tick tock – the clock keeps ticking and time appears to be going faster.
Let’s face it, way back when we likely thought 60 was old – heck, 50 seemed old when we were teens. Not anymore. I don’t feel my age and yet I do know that I need to pay more attention to my body, mind, and spirit.
Putting ourselves first isn’t being selfish – I’ve come to accept this and have learned over the years that we have to take care of ourselves.
The ABC’s of turning 60 – let’s opt for this:
A for Adventure
B for Breathwork
C for Creativity
D for Determined
E for Exercise
F for Freedom
G for Grace & Gratitude
H for Health
You can do the rest.
And, for as many wellness resorts as I’ve been to and as many classes on mindfulness, you would think that I know the answers – and maybe I do. Maybe deep down I know why I’m here….maybe what I’m doing is exactly what I’m here for and maybe we’re all exactly where we’re meant to be.
Another quote that speaks to me is this one by Fellini and it is something that I’ve thought about over the last several years, ever since I was in Ischia, Italy.
No matter what happens, always keep your childhood innocence. It’s the most important thing.” – Federico Fellini
I like to think of it as childhood wonder.
How do we simplify and live with more wonder and innocence? Perhaps it’s about letting things flow and not taking on the weight of the world. Finding joy in our everyday activities. Laughing more. Being with family and friends.
And wanderlust!
Let’s talk about travel. Travel is a huge part of my life (heck, it is my life!) and for those of you that know me know that I love wellness getaways (and road trips!). Travel is what brings me joy – a sense of wonder and wander – so this year has been more difficult for many of us “seeking” new lands, new ideas, and new accomplishments.
I was supposed to go to Turks & Caicos for this birthday – I wanted to get my groove back and thought this would be the place. If I were to describe myself in a few words I’d say – Adventurous, Spiritual, Always Seeking,
and Driven.
Then there’s the thought of living with anticipation and expectation. Which is best? I think there are benefits with both and yet I keep wanting something big to light me up and lift me up – what will it be? Again, seeking vs being.
Maybe the mantra should be – “God is good, and something good is going to happen to me today!” (Thanks, Joyce Meyer.) (Feel free to use it for yourself!)
Maybe that’s part of the wisdom I gleaned over these last (nearly) 60-years – understanding that “being” can bring comfort and joy and less stress. Although “seeking” is innate – it’s just part of who I am. And that’s okay, too.
When Life Changes, We Change
About 15-years ago I lost my 51-year old husband when I was 45-years old and life took on different meaning.
Perhaps that’s why birthdays have meant more to me over the last 10+ years. We need to live each day to the fullest especially with each journey around the sun.
And some roads – even loss – bring us to new destinations, new loves, and new friends.
So, what’s next?
I’m not quite sure, but I do know that I need to change things up a little as looking at the same goals year after year is depressing. Another chapter (new decade) means bigger dreams and new goals.
It’s never too late.
Even during this “pandemic” year I’m grateful for a writing project and where it may lead.
Words of Wisdom on Turning 60
I reached out to several friends that recently turned 60 and a few that are a little older.
A lifelong friend said this to me:
I love being sixty.
No expectations with life choices like marriage, children, career changes – my choices have been made and I’m content with every one. I can live with less stress and enjoy this time in my life.
There’s a calmness in my life.”
– Karen H.
And another said …
It’s just another day – I didn’t feel 60 or even my current age – it’s just a number! It isn’t an age that should define you – it’s you – your outlook, the joy you feel each day that defines you! Every day is another adventure.”
– John A.
Another friend said something a little different …
I was not looking forward to turning 60 as I was kicking and screaming my way there. 60, really? What exactly should 60 feel like? I sure didn’t feel 60. Once my birthday passed, it was actually liberating!”
– Betsy P.
A soul sister said this to me …
Turning 60…Not looking 60 and having a younger husband makes this transition easier. My Grandmother and her generation looked really old. I also keep up with exercising and hiking, as long as my knees let me, those bitches remind me they are 60!!
And, I do love the wisdom of this age. It reminds me of the movie, Fried Green Tomatoes, where she runs her car into the younger girl’s car in the parking lot. She says she’s older and has more insurance…🎤 drop…boom!”
– Melissa F.
So, the truth is that I’m feeling more focused. Will this last or is it pre-turning-60 euphoria?
Will I feel different on my magical day of turning 60? I don’t know – a few more days to go and I feel like I’m putting too much emphasis on feeling different. I would like to feel bliss – yes, I would like to know what that feels like.
Whew! No more seeking, overthinking, and stressing over it all. Maybe that’s what 60 will be like. Maybe it will be about acceptance, forgiveness, and worthiness and a knowing that all is well.
Leave a comment on how you felt about your 60th.
I’ll end with this from another friend.
Tear off the rear view mirror and make every morning the start of a new journey.”
– Jake J.
Perhaps I’ll update this post in a week or so. I’m hanging on to my “late 50’s” for a few more days.