Growing old

Now that almost all of us have made our presentations, I decided to choose one of the topics and reflect on it: Growing old.

Growing old is part of the natural life cycle. Thus, since we are able to apply critical thinking, we fully understand that getting old is an unavoidable fact of life. But does understanding of this inescapable reality ensure its acceptance? I’m afraid it doesn’t. At least it is so in my case. Although we all know that no one is immortal, we somehow seem to believe deep down that an exception will be made in our case.

Every stage in life is full of its own charms. Each stage unfolds unique, unforgettable and rewarding experiences. Therefore, we shouldn’t be afraid of moving on.

Childhood abounds with plays and fun. Kids don’t have a job to keep or bills to pay. Children enjoy running, jumping, playing dressed-up and creating endless stories out of their imaginations.

During adolescence, teenagers enjoy a life which is not yet characterized by full responsibilities. It is an age of socialization: adolescents take part in countless social meetings, forge strong bonds with their friends and meet new people. During this stage, they also enjoy their first love.

By the end of adolescence, many need to take one of the most difficult decisions in life: the choice of a course of studies. With this comes more responsibilities, more hours of study and less hours of spare time. Mind you, this is a very rewarding and enjoyable stage where most of us are studying what we really enjoy while at the same time being pampered and economically sustained by our own families.

Adulthood may also abound with extraordinary experiences. Everybody who was able to find a partner and raise a family must easily account for the happiness that they find from being surrounded by the love of children and grandchildren.

However, in spite of the fact that there are many happy and rewarding situations waiting to be experienced in every single stage in life, I still feel quite afraid of moving ahead. And I think this will be even worse in some decades. Yes, I’m afraid of growing old. Why? Not because old age has nothing to offer since this is hardly true. Old age has some glorious rewards. It’s a time to enjoy retirement and spare time which will allow us to devote ourselves to hobbies and preferences. However, as time passes by, we become more and more aware that we are coming to an end. It’s almost painful for me to accept that once I leave this world, there will never ever be anything ahead. I’m afraid of time elapsing too quickly and not being able to accomplish all the dreams I dream to achieve. There is so much joy in living that I will like to live forever!