So, we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day.
2 Corinthians 4:16 (ESV)
How old is old? The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared that 65 years old is still considered young. Before, based on the Friendly Societies Act (1875) in Britain, old was defined by age 50. However, the health organization had done new research recently, according to average health quality and life expectancy and defined a new criterion that divides human age as follows:
- 0 to 17 years old: underage
- 18 to 65 years old: youth or young people
- 66 to 79 years old: middle-aged
- 80 to 99 years old: elderly or senior
- 100+ years old: long-lived elderly
I did a little more research and learned that even though the exact range is disputed, most other sources place middle adulthood between the ages of 45-65. However, I prefer to go with the criterion above. This is fabulous news since I turned 72 years old this year! I am delighted to find out that I have 8 more years before I become “elderly”!
Even though I have noticed my current phase of life is marked by changes—gradual physical, cognitive, and social changes—the older I get the more I realize how precious life is. I have no desire for drama, conflict, or stress. I just want to surround myself with good friends, a cozy home, food on the table, and people who make me happy.
I remember the coffee percolator my parents used every morning. It made a pleasant bubbling, gurgling sound and the aroma always perked up our senses. Unlike other brewing methods, percolator coffee is brewed multiple times so every time the now-flavored water drips down, it is passed once again through the grounds to create an incredibly aromatic cup of coffee.
Unfortunately, it is extremely easy to over-brew coffee using a percolator, therefore, a timer is recommended to regulate the strength. Just like the helpful percolator needs to be regulated to be useful—I need to recognize where I am on my own age timeline and make wise choices. O Lord, help me age like a perfect cup of coffee—percolating just enough to stay pleasant and aromatic.