Embracing Aging: Reflections on Becoming a Better Version of Myself

Core Concepts

As I age, I have become more accepting, less regretful, and focused on nurturing my inner world, which has made me a kinder and more patient person.

Abstract

The author reflects on how he has changed and grown as he has aged, highlighting five key practices that have contributed to him becoming the person he is today:

Accepting what comes his way: The author has learned to let go of resistance and embrace the flow of life, finding that acceptance leads to greater happiness.

Not regretting the past: The author acknowledges his past experiences, both positive and negative, and has made peace with who he has been, focusing on the present rather than dwelling on regrets.

Investing in his inner world: The author has been a dedicated meditator for 50 years, which has helped him develop patience, kindness, and presence. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing one's inner world as we age.

Putting out good energy: The author is more interested in engaging in generative conversations and doing work that adds value to others' lives, rather than getting caught up in divisive debates.

Becoming more patient and kind: The author has worked through his perfectionist tendencies and inherited drive, becoming more laid-back, calm, and less of a "dick" as he has aged.

The author concludes that as he has aged, he has become more content with who he is and more focused on living in the present moment, which has led to a greater sense of peace and fulfillment.

Stats

I've been a meditator for fifty years now.
I'm 72 years of age.

Quotes

"Because I accept everything that happens to me as God's will."
"Remember the clear light, The pure, clear white light. From which everything in the universe comes, To which everything in the universe returns; The original nature of your own mind. The natural state of the universe unmanifest. Let go into the clear light, trust it, merge with it. It is your own true nature. It is home."

Key Insights Distilled From

The More I Age, the More I Like Who I've Become

by Don Johnson at medium.com 04-08-2024

https://medium.com/crows-feet/the-more-i-age-the-more-i-like-who-ive-become-bc396affe0c0

Deeper Inquiries

How can one cultivate a greater sense of acceptance and letting go in the face of life's challenges, especially as one grows older?

As one grows older, cultivating a greater sense of acceptance and letting go in the face of life's challenges can be achieved through practices like mindfulness, meditation, and self-reflection. The author's experience of accepting what comes his way and not resisting external circumstances is a key aspect of this. By acknowledging that some things are beyond our control and embracing the concept of acceptance, individuals can navigate challenges with more ease. Additionally, developing a mindset that views obstacles as opportunities for growth and learning can help in fostering acceptance as one ages.

What are the potential drawbacks or limitations of the author's approach to not regretting the past, and how might one balance self-acceptance with continued growth and improvement?

While the author's approach of not regretting the past can lead to a sense of liberation and peace, there are potential drawbacks and limitations to this mindset. One drawback could be the risk of overlooking valuable lessons that could have been learned from past mistakes or experiences. Balancing self-acceptance with continued growth and improvement involves acknowledging past actions without dwelling on regret. It is essential to reflect on past experiences, learn from them, and use that knowledge to evolve and grow as a person while still maintaining self-acceptance.

How might the author's insights on nurturing one's inner world apply to individuals at different stages of life, beyond just those in their 70s?

The author's insights on nurturing one's inner world, such as through meditation and self-awareness, can be beneficial for individuals at various stages of life, not just those in their 70s. Younger individuals can start cultivating these practices early on to build a strong foundation for emotional and mental well-being. Middle-aged individuals can use these insights to navigate the challenges of career, relationships, and personal growth. The key is to prioritize inner work alongside external achievements, regardless of age, to cultivate a sense of peace and contentment.