I feel as though I am caught somewhere in between wanting to make a million dollars and simply sitting in the woods all day if only to hear the birds sing. But, there is a clock ticking that we can’t see. 

At times, I strongly feel the tug of simplicity. Now is not the time to give into that tug but the day is coming. First, I have a few more financial goals to reach before I give in. I may never be worth that million but, somehow, I want to have a million dollars worth of fun before I’m gone. 

As the years are passing quickly, I often think of old age. Will I grow old? Will I make it to retirement? Will I ever be able to slow down and do just as I see fit? With sickness and death all around, in the young, old, and not so old, it makes me appreciate life and good health. 

I planted an oak in my yard about 6 or 7 years ago. It is dead. It noticeably did not bud this spring. Not one single leaf has yet to appear. I know with certainty, I should have watered this young tree last fall. Apparently the drought got the best of it. Then, there’s a huge, very old, oak in the backyard that has reached its maximum time allotted. The north facing side looks pale and branches, leafless. Bark is slipping off due to insects and woodpeckers, as they both hold dinner meetings on it. Hawks and crows love the open perch. They use it as often as do the squirrel going in and out of the hollow knot holes. Some grow old, yet some die young. 

I am blessed with good health but I also intentionally stay active and somewhat fit, so that I may avoid some unforgiving circumstances. I am to believe many health problems may be avoided with a healthy diet and exercise. Also, the Bible says, life and death is in the power of the tongue. As I speak life and that clock ticks, I am with high hopes I am rewarded with old age, if only to be able to do nothing more than enjoy the song of birds at any point in the day I would like. Life is short, even if we grow old.