This old man, he played 10

Three weeks ago, I tweaked my left knee while in the backyard garden. Last week, I turned my right ankle while I was in McCosh Park, exploring the edges of the lake.

My mind is telling me that my body can do the things I used to in the past. On the other hand, my body is giving me signals that it is no longer capable of such things. In any event, I need to be more careful.

It doesn’t seem that long ago. I used to play basketball, but I quit doing so in my 30’s. I loved playing in church softball leagues, but I hung up the cleats when I was 50.

A year ago, I quit playing table tennis. The closest club is in Richland. So, distance was a factor. It didn’t help matters that younger players were beginning to whip this old man. My feet simply don’t move as fast as they used to and this was becoming frustrating for me.

Sadly, I found it necessary to give up all these things as I’ve advanced in years.

On the flip side, I have been thankful for what I’ve gained in knowledge during my lifetime. I have been married to Jeanne for over 35 years, so I know some things about marriage. I’ve served as a minister for over 28 years, so I know something about that. I have been a parent for over 27 years, and one of our adult children has special needs – ditto. I’ve lived in several states, served in the Coast Guard, gone to college, met a lot of people, and done a lot of things.

I can draw upon my life experiences when I listen to and reflect with others. This is of great worth. One might call this collective wisdom. It isn’t perfect by any means, but proves to be quite useful in talking with others and comparing notes.

This brings a question to mind. Why can’t we have a younger body and wisdom at the same time?

The obvious answer is that life doesn’t work that way.

For me, I don’t think that this is a bad thing, that I’ll always be lacking something. As a result, I’ve had more reason to talk to God about these things. If I didn’t have as many issues, I wouldn’t do so as much. So, I’m good with it. How about you?

Walter is pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church and has served as parish pastor for more than 25 years.