“I’m 15 for a moment
Caught in between 10 and 20
And I’m just dreaming
Counting the ways to where you are”
I’ve come to realize that life can be divided into quarters, each (hopefully) lasting 25 years. Every quarter has its own unique challenges, and opportunities. Some things we care deeply about in one quarter don’t matter as much in the next. Each quarter carries mystery, and revelation.
“I’m 33 for a moment
Still the man, but you see I’m a ‘they’
A kid on the way, babe.
A family on my mind”
Experience reveals the nature of our mysteries. A total mystery in one quarter often becomes a given in the next. I have a good friend who likes to say, “I’m gonna be one smart mutha, just before I die.” I suppose that’s the irony of life. Just as you’re totally prepared to live it, it’s over.
“I’m 45 for a moment
The sea is high
And I’m heading into a crisis
Chasing the years of my life”
It may be a revelation to some that we are never totally prepared. We never know everything (and don’t remember it even if we do). We rarely understand all that is happening around us. The life we build is rarely planned, and only takes shape in retrospect.
“Half time goes by
Suddenly you’re wise
Another blink of an eye
67 is gone
The sun is getting high
We’re moving on…”
This doesn’t mean that we throw all caution to the wind, ignoring what others have learned, bouncing from one experience to another. Life carries a ton of mysteries, but we can (and should) learn from those who have gone before us. Those who faced similar mysteries, similar challenges.
“15 there’s still time for you
22 I feel her too
33 you’re on your way
Everyday’s a new day…”
Each of us has something to share with our fellow travelers. We can shed light on their mystery. Show a way. Lead by example. Reveal truths that we can clearly see.
“I’m 99 for a moment
And dying for just another moment
And I’m just dreaming
Counting the ways to where you are”
In the process, we reveal new truths for ourselves, see with new eyes, and listen with new attention. That’s the journey. Enjoy every minute of it.
“When you only got a hundred years to live.” -John Ondrasik, Five for Fighting
Encouragement is Personal 
This is probably why I am happy on the edge of fifty. Still in pretty good shape, but with a much better understanding of myself and others.
Here’s hoping your next two quarters are as fruitful as the first two!
I’ve always liked this song but after reading what you wrote I went back and listened to it with a new perspective. Thank you.
That’s excellent!