I’m beginning to think we must live in the present when young and productive with mind and body. Time is precious and limited in each period of life. From conception to birth, childhood, youth, and adulthood, every chapter is relatively brief. When considered in terms of life span, considering the average life span is 75 years, none are long enough for us to grasp the significance of each of these periods. If we did, living in the present would be easy.
I knew many 7-year-olds that came to our camps incapable of caring for themselves, then leaving after a summer responsible for themselves—and yes, responsible for others. They grew for several reasons: The way they were treated by staff, being involved in the activities of the day, keeping clean, and keeping the environment they lived in as they found it. Here, age was no restriction, only the capacity to participate. This meant being present; for most kids, this is where they lived or ought to live.
When doing workshops with adults and their leaders, the importance of all being present was everything to me, and we often dealt with this as a subject. The fact is that as participation increased, and improved, so did their communications and relationships. As the workplace became more secure and safer, staff began to take over the workshops. They knew their issues and, in time, went for them with gusto, and neither the leader nor I was safe from being confronted. How refreshing and challenging those moments were and are.
So, I understand the need and vital importance that we are present as essential to getting the most out of life. However, now, I’m not sure that this is where the aging should be. I am coming to understand that there is a reason we have memories, and I must ask myself, is this the best place for the aging to live? There is value in taking refuge in good memories, and a past well lived. They provide comfort in a present that has comparatively less to offer. Am I wrong?
Sy
