The “Number”

Age is more than a number: how often do you hear this phrase stated?. It often defines where we are assigned in life: infant, toddler, preschool, elementary, middle school, high school, college, adult, middle aged, mature, elderly. Initially the assignments are solely based on “the number”, but the divisions become less and less well defined as they progress. There are many college students which have a higher number than the average. There are adults who are still living in the high school glory days. Adults who act older than their number and those who give the number no thought and do what ever they please.

6 16 18 21 26 40 55 65 73 80 85 90 100

Each of these numbers as a special meaning at the age of six you start school.

At 16, you can get a drivers license

At 18 most people graduate in high school

A 21 you can drink legally

Age 26 you can no longer be carried on your parents insurance

At 40 most people consider this the beginning of middle age

At 55 you qualify for senior citizen discount at restaurants

At 65 you’ve reached the average retirement age

At 73 you must start drawing on your retirement accounts.

at 80 you’re considered elderly

At 85 you’re now considered the very old

At 90, you have beat the odds

And you get a birthday card from the president

A few of these numbers are absolutes– such as the legal age requirements. However, most nearly suggestions. Very little is dictated by the number of birthdays you’ve had. I believe the important thing is what have you done with the time you’re given?

Have you loved?

Have you been loved?

Have you been a good friend?

Have you had a friend that was closer than family?

What have you lost?

How have you responded to loss?

What have your mistakes taught you?

What would you like to share to make other people’s lives better; Or possibly prevent them from going through some of the rougher patches in your life?

Think about this hard. Just by living you gain knowledge that cannot be taught. You developed skills you may not even know your possess.

Do not dwell on life’s disappointments.

You are a valuable asset and have much to share.