George Bernard Shaw is often quoted as saying that youth is wasted on the young. But many other people were also alluding to this idea. Now as I watch grandchildren bursting with energy roping, riding and ski stunts, I wonder if they could trade this trait for some wisdom gained by a life well lived and maybe possessing some wisdom.
The joy of hard work sometimes eludes them, but I know if a good example is set for them, they will find a balance. Good old work/life balance!
There is not as much spring in my step as there used to be. Words of the elders ring fresh in my ears: youth (and energies) should not all be wasted on youth.
The big promise of spring is new life and rapid growth. Soon it will be too late to plant for a crop this year’s harvest, but early for overwintering and an advanced start on next year.
I marvel at the early blossoms on the honey berry or Haskap plants which will provide early fruit for harvest. One can also appreciate the vigour of the recently planted fields as they spring up ahead of the older fields that have passed their prime.
Some time ago, I spoke with a Swiss immigrant who, hearing I had planted some nut trees that would bear fruit(nuts) 100 years from now, laughed and said that is what farmer do in Europe. Wisdom and foresight can bring a person to plant for the future. All it takes is capturing a bit of the vigour of youth to get it done.
A good balanced life at any age is one wherein some of those things we attribute to youth (exuberance, energy, willingness to learn by mistakes…) can be captured by those of us who are seriously aging and apply it to the time we have left for fulfillment.
