My Prayer for the Aging

Let's not kid ourselves. Life is fleeting. We don't realize it in the moments of the day, nor when hours seem to never end. Moments, and hours, when quietness overtakes us. Moments when we feel the loneliness that runs deep because of losing someone we've lived with for most of our earthly life. Moments, that turn into hours, when the realm we find ourselves to be in, turns deathly quiet for lack of human connection. It's just you and the air you breathe.

Sure, there are passersby on the lonely street that runs in front of your dwelling. Sure, the sun does come up every day, even when the clouds cover it. Sure, we still have those memories, that are on constant replay, of days gone by. But how long will it be before we actually feel another's arms wrapped around us? How long before another actually wants to be with us? How long before someone will want to hear about our memories, or simply want to engage us in conversation, as they share their own life with us?

Survival comes in many forms, yet the best one I have found, as the years are whizzing past me, comes from within. God has provided us with a way of escape. From all things fearful. And He instilled it deep within our spirit. Aging need not be fearful.

My prayer for you is this.

• May humanity (especially those you love) remember there is a young person that lives inside your aging body.
• May you age gracefully, never forgetting who you are and whose you are.
• May you appreciate the rising of the sun. Even when the clouds try hiding it.
• May you breathe fresh air daily. Memo: This requires getting out of the house even when you don't feel like it.
• May you continue to live life to the fullest your body will allow.
• May you hear the birds rejoice because you are listening to them.
• May you feel the breeze comfort you, as it gently blows softly around you.
• May you always know when a mosquito is about to draw your blood. Then destroy it. I still haven't found a purpose for those mean suckers.
• May you always kick the rocks to the side of the road.
• May you always remember that you have been loved by another. Also, Read Romans 8:38-39.
• May you always pray for those you know nothing about. And for those you know so much about.
• May you always see the beauty right in front of your eyes, regardless of what is happening around, and possibly to you.
• May you continue to give love away. Memo: Resentment comes easily. Love is a choice (a bit harder, but doable).
• May you never fear falling. It's okay to fear getting back up. But get back up!
• May you always speak the name of Jesus when fear tries to over-take you.
• May your children (or anyone, really) remind you of this prayer should you forget.

As always, here you will find me, kicking rocks...in Mary's World

P.S. Anything you would like to add? Go ahead and leave a comment, if you wish.