But How Old Are You Really?
I learned something about kids when I stood in a classroom of ten-year-olds as a guest speaker. During the question/answer period, the first kid who raised his hand asked, "How old are you?"
The teacher, who was aghast, shut him down and scolded him for being rude. But I didn't mind the question at all.
I think it's a question we should all be asking ourselves.
Though we know the year we were born and can do the math, how many of us truly feel that same age in our heart and mind?
I've met boring, 20-year-old curmudgeons, and I've enjoyed the company of pranksters who are well into their 80s.
It's true we all notice age first and make judgments based on our perceptions, but when a person speaks freely from their heart, their age becomes a moot point.
In the last presidential election, age became a deciding factor. When Joe Biden was ousted by party bosses, it was because he appeared feeble. Donald Trump, by comparison, was still spitting fire. He spoke from his emboldened, rambunctious mind and shot from his hip uncensored. Even Kamala Harris, much younger, was no match for the raging 78-year-old bull in a china shop. She'd been preprogrammed by party bosses. She was forbidden from going off script—word for word, she had to stick to the dictates of the party.
For those who remember Sarah Palin, John McCain's vice presidential running mate in 2008, she blew people away initially for not sticking to the script. People were enamored by her audacious, gun-toting behavior, but she was quickly reeled in by Republican party bosses and silenced, which caused her light to dim.
When people deliberately censor their heart and mind, they don't radiate. They don't wow us.
We're ignited by those who speak freely, unencumbered by what others may think of them. We may even be amazed and falsely seduced by them—but not because they seem genuine. Often they're not. What grabs us is the magic of the self-confidence they possess. Who doesn't wish they could feel so solid and bold within themselves?
Self-assurance not only creates an aura of credibility, it also imbues one with the charisma others wish they possessed.
The child who raised his hand to ask about my age did so because it wasn't obvious to him. In general, kids either think you're young or old. But I was a woman speaking freely with confidence, and that may have confused him.
So, what about you? How old are you?
Put your biological age aside and ask yourself, do I love my mind enough to let it run wild no matter what others may think?
Present Valley
I love and appreciate this post. What a beautiful question for all of us. I do think about that...even when I feel stiff or arthritis is getting my attention I feel very young at heart and in my mind.
I honestly don't even know what "old" is anymore. It is certainly different than when I was in my 30's. I have come to believe in the concept of "elders" as a reframe, not elderly or old. Sliding into my 80's I am blessed with many friends a little bit older who are great role models, vibrant, open minded, active and fun to be around, no one would guess their age by watching them or looking at them.
I too have met young people who have an old belief system and am curious what that is about.
I celebrate the idea of letting our minds run wild. For me, more importantly has been the experience of allowing my mind, heart, body and spirit to run wild as I am called to play the Medicine Drum. Briefly I connect with some ancient tribal rhythm that feels peaceful and healing. And I feel freer than I have in my lifetime.
Thank you for sharing this very relevant post for people of all ages no matter what the career choice is.
Evangel
Free expression comes in so many forms. I'm happy to hear you've found your own unique vehicle for self-expression that brings you peace and healing. Thank you for your generous comment and sharing your personal experience!
Slipstream
My age depends on my mood, my surroundings, and responsibilities of the day. Sometimes I'm very mature in making life decisions, being an ear for someone who's down, or taking on the ever-growing list of tasks.
Other times, I'm 5 years old, skipping, humming, or making funny noises. I keep my 5-year-old corralled much of the time, but it's no less enjoyable when she's out playing by herself.
Evangel
I agree with you. How old we feel depends sometimes on mood. Sometimes, world events stress me out to the point of making me feel depleted and useless. Other times, it fires me up. I'm glad you feel free enough to act like a five-year-old. If it makes you happy, it's sure to help you live longer! Thanks for sharing that.
Homeless Valley
I, too, appreciate this post. I was raised to be reserved and let others talk. I was often told no one cares about what I have to say. So I kept to my place. I don't censor myself here or anywhere online, but in a group setting, unless I know people well, I tend to let others speak. I suppose that's made me the wallflower I am. But I enjoy getting onto a swing in the neighborhood park, and in those moments I feel free and like a kid again.