How Old is Old?

Grandpa Kevin reading to our two youngest grands

“Original chicken sandwich, buy one get one free,” read my husband as we passed a fast-food restaurant. “Wow, if that sandwich is made from the original chicken, it must be really old.”

Our five-year-old grandson quipped from the back seat, “It might even be older than Grandpa!”

When my grandparents were in their fifties, I remember thinking how old they seemed. Now, it seems mighty young.

As we grow, we realize that our childish viewpoints are just that: childish. And if we’re wise, we’ll let go of some of those infantile ideas. For example:

·         Circumstances should always go according to my plan.

·         I shouldn’t have to wait for what I want.

·         People are here to make me happy.

·         I can get my way by bullying or throwing a hissy fit.

·         If you don’t agree with me, I won’t be your friend.

 

Grumpy Cat makes me laugh, but grumpy peoople aren't funny

 

And we--hopefully--exchange them for ideas like this:

·         If I have to switch to Plan B, I’ll adjust.

·         Waiting for something I want makes me appreciate it.

·         I’m here to help people and bring out the best in them.

·         I refuse to manipulate others to get my way. I trust the Lord to give me His best.

·         If we always agree with each other, our thinking will never expand.

 

 

We all know people whose bodies have aged but whose thinking has remained childish. No one enjoys their company, because they’re so full of themselves, their hearts have no room for others. I don’t want to become one of these oldies but moldies, acting like a baby in a grown-up suit.

Now, if I can just convince Daniel to leave behind his idea that Grandpa is old. In another fifty years or so, he’ll change his mind. . .