Monday, October 22, 2012

The Hourglass, Musings on Time and Mortality

Whomever said that people cannot or do not change, to my way of thinking, is wrong. 
Lately, I have been thinking a lot about my past, my present and my future. 
I am certainly not the same person I was at the age of 18, or 37 or 2 years ago.
My younger self believed that the world was wide open and available to her - all for the taking.
Occasionally, I wish that girl would show herself these days. 
Where did she go? 
That girl had no fear of trying new things, going new places, meeting new people. Reinvention was a daily ritual. Life was unfolding and there were no limits!
Curiously, that girl did have an innate sense that 'better hurry up - there is so much to do", but ironically, did not know that time is finite.
Allegory of Good Government (detail), Lorenzetti, 1338
I still may not have full knowledge of my mortality (Aha! My younger self is still here!), but I do know that many of my priorities have dramatically changed.
The most important change that I recognize is that I do not have the patience to waste my precious time and energy on matters that I deem inconsequential.
Time and Energy = 2 Precious, Finite Resources!
In plainer terms, "I do not suffer fools gladly" these days, let alone be willing to act foolishly.
I am noticing more and more how much stock is placed by so many people in games and drama.
What a pitiable waste.
Is reality and survival not challenging nor dramatic enough?
When one's energy is spent on foolishness, there is not enough energy to draw upon when a real crisis comes along, as it inevitably does.
One too many of these kinds of energy drains and guess what? The well is dry, so to speak. 
Your time is up. 
That young girl would go attend any and every concert, movie, party, art opening - anything fun, at virtually any available opportunity.
These days, I am much more discerning about where and with whom I wish to invest my time, effort and energy. 
 After all, the sands keep running through that hourglass.

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia