Psa 90:12  “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.”

As we age it seems our priorities change, our outlook is different, what might have been important looks silly, and totally valueless. The things that were once an irritation or annoyance, those little things that became major issues, now look ridiculously pointless and frivolous.  What changes?  The spouse I’ve had for 46 years is still the same…well, with exceptional positive changes over the years as maturity sets in.  The things I used to be annoyed about don’t seem very serious anymore.  Thinking about it….it’s my attitude.

I have changed.  My priorities now are in making every effort to enjoy and appreciate every day we have together.  As our age mates, and those even younger than us, are now meeting the end of their journey on this planet, it brings us to the stark realization that we are no longer in the ranks of the young ones, with long life anticipated ahead of them.  Not to sound morbid or morose, it’s mere fact.  We aren’t going to live forever, ( I for one, wouldn’t want to!) and that realization makes a difference in how we approach life.

The little things that seemed discourteous once, not so much anymore.  Habits that were almost intolerable, just a part of the one I’ve loved and cared for for nearly a half a century.  And then there’s this….the thought that seems close on the heels of a near complaint about a life long annoyance in my spouse, what if he weren’t here?  Then what?  I’d be happy to “put up with” that irritating habit just one more day.  I’d look forward to hearing roof raising sneezes without warning, and waiting and waiting for him to come in for a meal as it gets colder and colder because he’s lost track of time.  Small things in the grand scheme of things now.

Then the thought comes to my mind….what habits of mine have been plaguing my dear spouse all these years that he has graciously overlooked or tolerated without criticism.  I’ve come to realize, finally, I am not perfect.  Sudden shock there I know.  I own up to making his life pretty miserable at times with my flaws and shortcomings.  He graciously gives me space to just be me, and finds his own way to manage those things that he might like changed in my habits and character. Acknowledging my flaws is one thing, owning responsibility to be a better wife tomorrow than I was today is quite another.  Just making the effort to be kind, considerate and thoughtful rather than to assume he’ll just keep putting up with my bad habits and ornery ways, goes a long way towards growing old gracefully.  It’s the little things that count, really.

Many years ago, I observed “old” people, grumpy, critical, and not much fun to be around, and thought to myself right then, I want to grow old with grace, and a demeanor that gives others encouragement to be the best person they can be each day.  I’m a long shot from that goal, but, the goal of being intentionally looking for ways to bring honor and glory to God helps keep that thought in mind.

Indeed things change.  So, the next time you are within earshot of me, and you have a an annoyance with another in your realm of existence, I might just call you out, and ask you…what if they weren’t here?  Would you wish for just one more day?  Would you suddenly find that bad habit or irritating quirk a lot more tolerable, if it meant one more day with that person you love?  Priorities change in the face diminishing years.  And I’m thankful for those thoughts that bring my attention to what I can do to make those years left joyously content with who we are.  “So, teach us to number our days….” that I might apply God’s wisdom in each of those remaining days He has for me.