Monday, August 25, 2014

What the Angel Said - Over 50

Life
is not a mountain.
You needn't feel
"Over the hill."









It's more of a plateau.

You're born looking up
looking ahead
to this climb.

You head for the landmarks
you recognize:
Growing, Graduation, Gratification.









Much of what we pursue
is illusion.

With each one dispelled
or realized
we become more than we were,
yet more ourselves.












Our perspective changes
with altitude.

Nothing is as it seemed
when we get there.

Often it is much MUCH
better
than we could ever know.









Now that I have achieved
the journey over the lip
of what can be glimpsed
by those under 50.
I see not a decline
down some other side
but a delightful raising path
towards lovely mystery.

If the Unknown
can be called lovely.

The harsh sun of midday
so suited to the work I had to do
does not penetrate here.

The atmosphere is gentle,
even if unknowns lurk about,
ahead.

Oh there is work to be done
but with urgency removed.
I do not want to eat up miles,
but to savor my steps.

Each stage of life
has its tasks and compensations
and I intend to enjoy 
ALL of mine!

Age is a gift
to those who can
accept it.

You deserve ALL
Good Things, Friend-
That is my wish for
Y O U
                Warmly, cloudia

26 comments:

the walking man said...

Every "0" year adds something to perspectives. Oh I am anxiously anticipating 70 when my grandson will be 10, he and I will always share the last digit of our age--on the same day of the month in the same month. It is my duty to show him the way to 10

Mary said...

What a lovely inspiring piece. Loved the pictures too.

eViL pOp TaRt said...

A nice perspective on the human life experience. "Over the hill" is a dreadful expression, often used without thought. All times of life have their challenges, and their joys.

I've read that persons above 60 are more likely to describe themselves as happy and life-affirming. It's good to have the perspective, and see the forest and not just the trees,

PerthDailyPhoto said...

You send out so many positive vibes Cloudia, your karma bank' must be overflowing!
P.s. Your sweet little bird is lovely :)

Birdman said...

"With each one dispelled
or realized
we become more than we were,
yet more ourselves."

Fine words for me to follow today.

Charles Gramlich said...

The only thing that worries me about getting older is the health. Other than that, getting older has got much going for it.

TexWisGirl said...

bless you.

Teresa said...

I love the picture of water droplets on the leaf. Love your essay on aging, as well. I heartily agree.

ifthethunderdontgetya™³²®© said...

Getting older beats the alternative!
~

Indrani said...

Wishing you many more happy years ahead!

Cloudia said...

I gotta say, I really savored each of Your comments and will come back to read them again. Thanks true

Couture Carrie said...

So true, darling!
Love these pics and quotes and your insight :)

xoxox,
CC

dr.antony said...

I was away for a while and catching up with your old posts !

Elephant's Child said...

My older self is MUCH more comfortable with herself. And enjoying the ride more too. Bumps and all.

William Kendall said...

Great advice, Cloudia, and wonderful pics!

Magia da Inês said...

。.✿✿°°
Que post lindo!
Fotos maravilhosas... a primeira é um encanto!!!

Boa semana!
Beijinhos.
♡♡彡

Jenn Jilks said...

You are a beautiful person!

21 Wits said...

Aloha Cloudia, I'm dancing by the sound of your thoughts!

eileeninmd said...

Lovely advice and words! I am one of those 50+ slower going up the hills..Thanks for sharing a great post. Have a happy week!

Cloudia said...

Thanks friends. Lots to enjoy here in our party today!

Small Kucing said...

great advice. Age is also just a number. We are as young/ old as we think we are

Anonymous said...

Hi Cloudia,
I'm Maureen @ Josephina Ballerina (our cat). First visit to your blog. And, I must say, I could hardly stop reading. Going to follow you on bloglovin'. Found you over at Pat's blog -The Weaver of Grass.
My next birthday, in April, will see me turn 60. Lord willing and the creek don't rise!
I enjoyed Walking Man's comment. My grandkids are 6,3,and 1. I guess I have a duty to them, as well.
Smiling at you from Maryland.

magiceye said...

Beautiful post and
You too are deserving of all the good things!!

Namaste /\ from Mumbai
Aloha!!

Anonymous said...

Such true words! Age is very often a mental state...

Gorgeous pictures!

Cloudia said...

Thank You

Willow said...

How inspirational you are my friend .
Beautiful uplifting photos and quotes.