40: The Growing Value of Peace
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
GETTING OLD STINKS.
I hear this over and over as folks age. Our parts don’t work as well as they used to. Every ache and pain tells us that we’re declining.
Some notice a symptom and immediately it becomes all consuming. You must distract yourself and focus on that which is constructive. Peace is important to all; it is extremely important to us as we age.
Much has been written on aging gracefully. Here are five attitudes that I recently came across.
Accept the complexity that comes with longevity. Our medical system knows this, and in Canada, the fees paid to physicians increase per patient as we age. Life is more complex in relation to our health.
Develop a positive attitude toward growing older. Growing older happens, so you might as well accept it.
Exercise your mind. There are many games you can play on your mobile device that will stretch you mentally.
Broaden your interests. God invites us to join Him in His ongoing work of designing, creating, and organizing. Look for new opportunities —this could be academia, volunteering, or even part-time work.
Live a life of thanksgiving. It changes how you think. This is a great strategy in fighting the battle of the mind.
Paul McKeon lists four C’s in his Starts at 60 article “How to Find Peace of Mind at any Age.”[1]
Control. We need to have a sense of control over our lives. We are to be active participators, and while we can’t always control our circumstances, we can control our responses to what happens to us.
Commitment. We need to be committed to living. In order to do this, we must resolve the issues of our past. This can involve changing our priorities and reconciling in relationships where there may be some conflict.
Challenge. We need to feel challenged and excited about our lives.
Connection. We need to be in community where we are loved and supported by those we share life with. We need a sense of belonging.
Questions
- Reflect on the four C’s. What does each one mean to you at your stage of life? Is there one that could be more of a challenge than the others? Why?
- What steps can you take now so that these C’s will be met in greater ways over the coming years?
- We are to trust God even when it doesn’t make sense. Anxiety is the opposite of peace. What issues are causing anxiety for you? What can you do to alleviate anxiety and increase your trust in God?