For the most part, we don’t consciously noodle on the subject of time because we’re so consumed with living life. However, as time passes, we certainly comprehend what “time marching on” feels like. Our present becomes our past as soon as it’s happened. Today turns into yesterday, seemingly in the blink of an eye.

In march step with time’s inevitable progression, we inescapably and irrevocably change. Sensitivities, perceptions, awareness and views evolve. Priorities shift. In one form or another, we come to personally know defeat, suffering, struggle, anxiety and regrets. Trusts are gained and broken. Folks depart. The heart and the mind never forget some things or some people, but without fail, other memories fade. Hopefully, love in its many miraculous forms is given and received throughout one’s odyssey.

As one of my favorite troubadours notes about time and life, “Some of it’s magic, some of it’s tragic.” (“He Went To Paris” by Jimmy Buffett.)

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If you’ve never read anything by Mitch Albom, put doing so on your to-do list. I first became aware of Albom as a sportswriter with the Detroit Free Press. He later turned to writing inspirational stories and themes that weave through his outstanding books (e.g., Tuesdays with Morrie, The Five People You Meet in Heaven, Have a Little Faith), plays and films. In The Time Keeper, he knocks it out of the park in his assessment of time:

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I definitely look at time differently than when I was young. I’m less likely to waste time with people (especially “ugly” individuals), activities, or pursuits that aren’t worthwhile. More narrowly, I recognize that I spent too much of my younger self worrying about what other people thought and not enough time believing in and striving for possibilities. Too often, I fell victim to peer pressure.

As I suspect it is the case with everyone, I survived a lot of judgment — from others and from myself. While I cherish some excellent mentors along the way, I realize now that a good bit of what folks thought about me and what I should be doing was about as useful as a screen door on a submarine.

I’m more clever, more intelligent (or at least more competent), and have a greater sense of acceptance of self and others here 50 years later. Time on life’s treadmill has delivered a heightened level of horse sense and poise. I’ve learned that life experiences enhance one’s perspective, wisdom and empathy.

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As far as I can tell, my former high-school classmates generally juggle fewer “overwhelming” responsibilities and “inescapable” obligations. We Boomers have more time for previously neglected interests and pursuits. Confidence learned and earned over the years often unleashes the freedom to speak our minds. I suspect that this comes from caring less about what other people think and knowing that life is short. And, Lordy, are we Boomers available to share our wisdom and tell our stories!

Of course, I definitely feel the effects of time. It doesn’t seem fair that as one’s mind sharpens and cares fade, your body lets you know that you might just be getting old. Time doesn’t stand still, but I often prefer to do so. I agree with Toby Keith (another terrific country balladeer) that you ain’t as good as you once were, but hopefully you’re as good once as you ever were.

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I wish I could sit that young man in the gym down and tell him that he’s got the helm every day. That what he believes is paramount today may not be what’s essential. That life is too short to spend it in a hurry, and to slow down and enjoy the moments.

I’d tell him that in a world that travels far too fast, be yourself and always be kind. Take advantage of every minute you have because it truly is here today and gone tomorrow. And to cherish the journey’s unforgettable memories, family, strong friendships, and loves that will come in and out of his life.

The time is now. It always has been and always will be. I pray that you use it wisely regardless of where you are on the timeline of your life.

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• The last episode of Laugh-In aired on NBC.
• The film American Graffiti was released.
• In ranking order, the top five most popular television shows were: All in the Family, The Waltons, Sanford and Son, M*A*S*H, and Hawaii Five-O. CBS aired four out of the top five.
• The top songs were “Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Ole Oak Tree” (Tony Orlando and Dawn), “Killing Me Softly ” (Robert Flack), “You’re So Vain” (Carly Simon), “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” (Stevie Wonder), “Crocodile Rock” (Elton John), “Let’s Get it On” (Marvin Gaye), and “My Love” (Paul McCartney & Wings).

 
Whoosh! Five decades! Gone! Swift fly the years, indeed.  As noted above, this year marks one of those milestone reunions for members of my high school graduating class and me. I look forward to going down “memory lane” with my former schoolmates, renewing old friendships, and revealing how time has developed our own particular versions of wisdom and maturity, both of which were generally in short supply 50 years ago.

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