Today, as our church is in the middle of an “At the Movies” series, we learned from the movie Up.

I can relate to Carl. You know, the old guy from the movie.

Life seems to fly by.

But, as we learned today, life can be an adventure.

Make no mistake, getting older stinks, but it beats the alternative.

More and more, I find myself glancing in the mirror and wondering who that old man over there is.

I don’t feel old.

But then, when I get on the ground to do something, I always think “is there anything else I need to do while I’m down here.

I still walk a lot.

I tend to work circles around those younger than me.

And then I’m ready for a nap.

I tend to listen to a lot of hip-hop and pop music…

mixed in with the oldies…

at high volume…

because I don’t hear as well any more.

I’ve worked with youth for years, which helps me feel younger.

And now I have a head full of grey hair.

Honestly, I don’t feel my age.

If you’re wondering, I’ll hit the big 6-0 next March.

Does getting older really stink?

Sure, there are parts of it I could do without.

 

• I can’t look at a hamburger without gaining a couple pounds.
• I get winded after going up a few flights of stairs (but I take them anyway).
• Pain is a near constant companion.

 

But there are so many benefits to getting older.

 

• I’ve forgotten more than most 20-year-olds know.
• I have more confidence now than ever before.
• With my experience, I’ve gotten very good at my job.
• People give me more respect than ever before.
• Two words – Senior Discounts!
• Finally, my relationship with God is stronger than ever before.

 

You can see the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages.

Even though I’ve had many adventures and am getting a little older, that doesn’t mean the adventures have to stop.

In fact, I’m just a little over 5 years from retirement from my day job. Then I’ll have another whole set of adventures.

Whether you’re 17 or 77,

Don’t let the adventure stop.

Cherish each moment.

Remember the good ones and put the bad behind you.

Then move on to the next great adventure!

Just keep a watch out for me ‘cause this adventurer is cruising along!