Embracing Agelessness: The Inner Self Beyond Time
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Chapter 1: The Essence of Age
Our age signifies more than mere digits or the reflection we see in the mirror. It's a profound topic that stirs deep emotions within humanity. Age can spark political movements, topple governments, and elicit both reverence and discrimination. Every individual must navigate the complexities of aging throughout their lives.
Asking someone their age requires careful thought; the significance of age amplifies with each passing year. Signing a birthday card for an elder often leaves me in a quandary. Should I make a light-hearted joke about being "over the hill"? Should I concoct a wise saying or claim they look younger every year, despite evidence to the contrary? My discomfort stems from my own ambivalence about aging.
However, a quote from Gertrude Stein has provided me with a meaningful response for any birthday greeting. It's something I can wholeheartedly affirm about myself, resonating with my life and spiritual beliefs.
"We are always the same age inside."
While I may not fully grasp Stein's intended meaning—her words first appeared in a compilation of famous quotes in 1927—I understand what they signify for me, and I suspect it holds similar significance for her.
The Timeless Self
Regardless of the years that pass or the experiences we accumulate, a fundamental aspect of our being remains unchanged. There exists an ageless, eternal facet of the human spirit that endures as our physical forms undergo transformation. This inner self does not age.
By connecting with this deeper, unchanging part of ourselves, we can rise above the superficial aspects of aging. Our true identity transcends the years we have lived.
Consider the joy an infant, puppy, or kitten brings into a room; they capture everyone's attention and effortlessly transform anxiety into joy. Their authenticity radiates a quality that the Tibetan Buddhist teacher Chogyam Trungpa refers to as "basic goodness."
Many who have had the privilege of being in the presence of the Dalai Lama describe a life-altering experience. It isn't merely his words that resonate; rather, it's the palpable warmth and compassion that emanate from him.
Spiritual Presence and Teachings
Great spiritual teachers convey wisdom not just through words but through their very presence. In India, the tradition of darshan allows followers to sit in the presence of a guru or enlightened being. While words may occasionally be shared, they are not essential to receiving the teachings.
One such revered figure, Indian saint Ramana Maharshi (1879–1950), often communicated through silence. He radiated a tranquil power that could still the minds of those attuned to it, occasionally offering them a direct experience of the profound state in which he existed.
The Silent Power Within
Each of us harbors a seed of this silent strength within. In our infancy, we exude an allure that draws others toward us—whether it's our parents or those around us. As we age, this magnetic quality may diminish, becoming hardly perceptible.
Yet, practices such as meditation and yoga exist to reignite our connection to this primal source of power. It mirrors the innocent charm of a baby or a playful pet—this "basic goodness." You may observe it in older individuals who, despite their frailty, possess a captivating presence.
This natural kindness embodies the wisdom of aging, accessible to all. As we enter our later years, it's the perfect time to engage in meditation, prayer, or other spiritual pursuits to unveil the part of ourselves that remains timeless.
Chapter 2: Transforming Old Age
After consistently meditating for nearly four years, I've discovered a gentler, kinder version of myself, significantly enhancing my life. One of the first articles I wrote on aging was titled "How Meditation Has Made Old Age the Best Time of My Life." While it may sound exaggerated, it's the unvarnished truth.
You might wonder if such a transformation stems from mastering intricate meditation techniques. In reality, it was quite simple. I devoted half an hour daily to meditation, observing my thoughts, and if I struggled to stay present, I redirected my focus to my breath. The essence of meditation lies in acceptance—embracing the present moment as it unfolds.
While you may not attain the stature of the Dalai Lama or Ramana Maharshi, persistence in your practice will lead to a profound sense of well-being.
With time, you'll find yourself embracing each moment rather than lamenting it. Your innate goodness will begin to shine through, improving your life in the process. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to explore meditation. If even one person feels inspired to try it, I will consider it a success.
Ultimately, we are always the same age within. Your age transcends mere numbers or the reflection in your bathroom mirror. The essence of who you truly are is ageless and imbued with basic goodness.
In a world often rife with division and negativity, we have much more in common than what separates us. The world craves more basic goodness, and we can contribute to this change, one individual at a time.
Gary
August 2024
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