Reflecting on a Lifetime: Insights from My 20-Year Old Self
As I sit at the age of 104, I often wonder what my younger self back in 2024 would have asked if she encountered her older self. The answers might vary, but one question always stands out: “How did you make it this far?”
Living to an Unexpected Age
Imagine my surprise when I found myself still alive in 2044, at the age of 104. In 2024, when I was just 84, it seemed impossible to envision such longevity. Yet here we are, in a world with 12 billion people and an America grappling with a debt of 80 trillion dollars. Artificial intelligence and robotics are running the world, and I’m still here, alone but not alone—since I’ve outlived my friends and relatives.
Yes, Richard, you really pulled it off. And as for my appearance, despite the natural aging process, I must say I seem quite handsome at 104.
Diabetes and Uncertainty
At 65, I face the harsh reality of a diagnosis with diabetes. The odds are daunting, and I muse about whether I’ll still be here in 20 years. So, the first question I would ask my 20-year-old self is, “Are you in heaven? Am I doing it right to get there?”
Curiosity about the Future
When I reflect on my recent visit, the age of 87 was met with great success. “Congratulations!” I say. Now, the real questions arise. How can we become richer in the future? I turn to my 20-year-old self, hoping for insights that could help us financially.
What a waste it was that I didn’t embrace the gifts I was given. As I aged, I allowed fear, insecurities, and jealousy to grapple with my true identity. My wisdom and understanding, my words that create, were lost in the shadows of personal fears. Instead of elevating myself, I hid behind a fa?ade to mask my vulnerabilities. I watched a whole life slip away, waiting, rather than living.
Learning from Mistakes
Now, at 104, I can look back and realize the importance of living in the present. Instead of constantly looking to a future that never came, I trusted in my God to guide me. However, the truth is that life is determined by our own nature. Our own nature pulled me down consistently, like gravity, and I accepted it without judgment.
It is a harsh reality that we cannot escape. Birth, life, and death are inescapable. Yet, we often hide from this truth, instead choosing the noise of entertainment and pleasure to mask our emptiness. Our fate is set, no matter how we perceive it.
Life is a constant journey of growth and reflection. Even though the future is determined by our nature, we can still choose to live it to the fullest.
Key Learnings
Aging and Longevity: Understanding and embracing the aging process can lead to a life full of purpose and reflection. Self-Reflection: Regular self-reflection helps us recognize our mistakes and work towards personal growth. Finding Joy in the Present: Living in the present rather than constantly looking to the future can lead to a more fulfilling life.As I sit here at 104, I hope that the insights provided can inspire others to embrace their lives fully and make the most of every moment.