Wait…is it really 2024?

It’s hard to believe that I’ve been alive for more decades than I want to admit.

I used to say, “I’m getting old.”  Now…I am old!

The funny thing is (or maybe it’s a little sad), I wouldn’t want to be young in today’s world. I’m somewhat glad to be my age. I’ve lived as a proud and grateful American, and I was fortunate to have an eventful and enjoyable life. Yes, there were some tough and sad times, but, overall, I have few complaints or regrets.

Ironically, there were times in my life that occurred many decades ago that seem to be like yesterday, while more recent events are like another lifetime. Funny how that works.

Wasn’t it just yesterday that we were worried about Y2K? Some young people have no idea what that even means.

And do you believe 9/11 occurred 23 years ago later this year?

On a personal note, there are days in my life that will be embedded in my mind forever. Certainly, 9/11 is one. Also, the assassination of President Kennedy was another for me. I remember everything about that day and the days that followed.

The 1960’s were a tough decade. I also remember well the killing of Dr. Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy in 1968. I remember where I was and who I was with when I heard the news.

But there were also good times in the 60’s, as I grew into my teen years. There was the night with my family watching ‘The Beatles’ on the Ed Sullivan Show in ’64. Also, regarding music, there was the ‘Elvis ’68 Comeback Special’ on TV that I will never forget.

Then there were my high school days, in the mid to late 60s. Those years were responsible for my favorite boyhood memories. And who can forget to leave home for college? My first airline flight was alone, as I left Massachusetts for school in Florida. Exciting, yet a little scary at the same time.

Ahh…the 1960s!

Needless to say, there are many fun and eventful college memories. Most were positive, as I made a few lifelong friends. Unfortunately, there were a few bad memories, but I try not to think about those anymore.

However, some of my most exciting memories came from my professional career, especially in the 1980s. With jobs that took me to 47 states and six countries, I’m fortunate to recall many interesting and educational experiences.

Based on those many enjoyable life moments, I suggest you live life as much as possible while you’re young. Don’t wait until you’re older in retirement. Life is best lived during your youth. Build your memories so you can enjoy them later in your golden years.

Unfortunately, and sadly, the times that will live with me the most are the days when I lost my Dad and Mom. Those heartbreaking days will live with me always and forever. I can still see those moments, and the days that followed, clearly in my mind. It hurts to this day. And those days occurred nearly 27 years ago for my Dad, and exactly 23 years ago today (9 January) for my Mom. But the good thing is, I also have so many wonderful memories of and with them. They were very special people. They are with me every day…in my mind and in my heart.

There are so many more wonderful memories in this old man’s roller deck of a brain…and I’m grateful that they still pop up, occasionally. They keep me going and smiling.

So, to all young people…be sure to cherish every day of your life. I know you ‘think’ you’re old…because you’re currently the oldest you’ve ever been. But trust me, your 30s, 40s, and even 50s aren’t old at all. So, pay attention to each day, especially those you know are special. Those will be the days that will become very important memories later in your life.

And please know…‘later in life’ will be upon you before you can imagine.

Eventually, time flies for everyone! So, pay attention to special moments, as they will become great memories in your golden years.

Happy New Year…again!

###