This year's presidential election will be the first my daughter participates in since leaving home. Reflecting on that, I recalled clearly my parallel experience in the presidential election year 1972. The path from there led me to wonder: What one thing would be useful to say if we were able to speak to ourselves at half our current age?
First thought: Would my 31 year old self pay any attention to a 62 year old, even though it's me speaking? Remembering myself at 31, I give it 50-50 odds. Maybe your odds are better. Second thought: The 62 year old will have to keep it short if he wants the 31 year old to listen. I recall how little patience I had at 31 for my Father's stories. But for this fantasy, 62 year old Pat gives himself the benefit of the doubt; 31 year old Pat will pay attention and be patient.
"Pat, to increase the likelihood of being happy as you get older, be sure to savor moments as you are living them; having goals is important, provided you remember to celebrate achieving them in a big way."
Don't bust my chops about this being two things instead of one the 62 year old is telling the 31 year old, OK? They are closely related and this is a fantasy. What would you say to your younger by half self?
About Me
- Pat Barton
- My most recent single release - "My True North" - is now available on Bandcamp. Open my profile and click on "audio clip".
Play that funky music white boy.
ReplyDeleteto my 14 year old self i would tell her to not take everything out on her wonderful mother. my teenage self was angry with my mom a lot, for no reason!
ReplyDeleteMe thinks 28 year old Marisa is, like many people, appreciating her parents now that she is an adult herself.
DeletePat, The same thing I tell myself now - "Relax,ease up". However, by the age of 93 I hope to be able to say "enough relaxing,now get up and DO SOMETHING"
ReplyDeletePeter; Always happy to see your comments. I'm guessing "relax & ease up" are things we can benefit hearing at any age from any age.
DeleteI would say to my younger self to be sure the people around you know how much you appreciate them just the way they are... And that your body is perfect just the way it is!
ReplyDeleteI would tell my 20 year old self:
ReplyDeleteYour enthusiasm for adventure and experimentation is wonderful. Just be sure to use a little bit of time/energy to prepare for the future. When you have a family, you will want the best for them.