To see myself as others see me… Two brothers, about 6-ish, were chasing each other. Then the slightly bigger one called out “Don’t run into the old man.”
Bloomin’ cheek! Calling me old. Just because I have white hair, a walking stick, and am hobbling along slowly… I’m not old.
“Not really old,” I said, hobbling to the next bench to rest my aching legs…
Sitting and enjoying the autumn scenery made me feel at home. Right in front of me, was a reed bed whose seedheads blended beautifully with my once-golden, now-discounted-to-silvery, hair.
I consoled myself with the hope that age might be bringing wisdom. Anyway, who wants to run around at high speeds, scaring septuagenarians? Let’s have a little respect. That. of course, is exactly what the youngster did- he thought about my safety, and educated his brother at the same time. Their parents should be proud of their sons: they have been well taught.
It reminded me of a bible verse that I chuckled over when I was young – and gray hair seemed like another generations’ problem…
God has made a promise to His people. It’s not funny any more. Now I’m comforted by it.
“Listen to me, family of Jacob,
everyone that’s left of the family of Israel.
I’ve been carrying you on my back
from the day you were born,
And I’ll keep on carrying you when you’re old.
I’ll be there, bearing you when you’re old and gray.
I’ve done it and will keep on doing it,
carrying you on my back, saving you."
- Isaiah 46 v3-4 (Message)
Look, See, Pray 