Life is a journey that takes us through many stages, and as we grow older, we begin to see things differently. When we are young, we often feel like time is on our side. We make plans, set dreams, and believe we will achieve everything we desire. But as the years go by, reality begins to set in. Our bodies change, our priorities shift, and sometimes, we realize that there are many things we wanted to do but never got the chance to.
Old age often comes with a mixture of memories, some joyful, others filled with regret. Many people in their later years sit back and think about the risks they didn’t take, the opportunities they let slip away, and the life they could have lived if fear hadn’t held them back. The fear of what people might say has stopped many from pursuing their dreams, only to later discover that no one was really paying that much attention in the first place. It’s sad to see people on their sickbeds with dying wishes filled with “had I known” moments, wishing they could go back and make different choices.
This is why it’s important to live intentionally while we still have strength. Every stage of life offers us something valuable, but as we get older, we begin to understand the importance of wisdom and experience. Older people, regardless of whether they made good or bad choices, have lessons to share. Not all older people are wise, but even from their mistakes, there is so much to learn. Someone who has lived recklessly and ended up with regrets can use their story as a warning to younger people, showing them what paths to avoid. On the other hand, those who have lived well can inspire us with their discipline and courage.
That’s why drawing close to the elderly is so important. They have walked roads, we haven’t yet travelled, faced challenges we might still encounter, and their experiences can serve as a guide. Sometimes, just listening to their stories can save us from repeating their mistakes.
When it comes to mentorship, finding someone to guide you in your professional career is often easier. There are many successful people who can teach you about business, finance, or other skills. However, finding someone who is not just skilled in their field but also lives a life of integrity and grace is much harder. A mentor who is balanced in character and success is rare, and when you find such a person, they are truly worth holding on to.
As I think about life, I realize that ageing is not just about slowing down physically but also about reflecting on how we have lived and what we will leave behind. I don’t want to grow old filled with regrets or missed opportunities. That is why I try to make choices today that my future self will thank me for. Life is fragile, and no one knows how much time they have left, so the best thing we can do is to live fully, love deeply, and learn continuously, from our own journey and from those who have gone before us.