Tuesday, August 27, 2013

On Aging



I remember my Mom saying, many years ago, "I look in the mirror and wonder who that old woman is because in my heart I still feel 16." I also remember my snarky, know-it-all self thinking - "Right," sarcasm running right down my wrinkle -free face.

I now have a granddaughter the same age I was when I smirked behind my Mom's back. I have eaten my words over and over again. These days I am the one looking at the stranger in the mirror.  The one whose heart is unaware of the lines and wrinkles, the vein-lined hands and the stiff joints.

It looks, from the other side of middle age, like youth has become something to be worshipped. We are bombarded with ads for everything from creams to surgery with the promise of turning back the hands of time. All well and good, but time is relentless and will ultimately have its way.

The heart, on the other hand, knows the real  secret of eternal youth. It was whispered long ago when the two who lost everything stood clothed in animal skins and shame. A promise of One who would come and bring with Him everlasting life.

I have learned to be gentle with this aging shell. It houses the beauty of eternity and the promise of everything made new.

Blessings,
Linda