September 15 Martha's Musings

Once again, the media has provided fodder for inspirational writing. On the “Kelly and Mark” show on morning television, the actress Demi Moore was a featured guest. Ms. Moore has a new movie coming out about how aging affects people, mentally and physically. To be truthful, this viewer found no signs of aging in Ms. Moore, so I am unclear as to why she was chosen for this specific role. Never-the -less, she discussed the “compare and despair” issue that is apparently causing havoc with the American population, and on which the movie is based. While I am sure that this issue is a real thing, based on the numerous methods available to fix whatever problem the aging process has caused, I must be clear that I do not like it. (Not the aging process, the “compare and despair” title.) Aging is what happens to very fortunate people; the less fortunate die prior to having the opportunity to age. That is the crux of the term “premature death”. Death occurs to everyone, whether they have aged or not. To enjoy the aging process, and celebrate each and every birthday, please do not compare yourself to anyone else. After all, it’s a clear waste of time, and quite unfair to your Creator. Your Heavenly Father thinks that you are fine just the way you are. Any wrinkles, brown spots, bald spots, mental decline, lack of energy, etc. are things that occur with normal aging. When you are in the seventh or eighth or ninth decade of life, you will look different than you did in your younger years. And that is fine, because you are supposed to. Your many years have educated you on a variety of topics, as you realize how blessed you are, only because of the grace of God. We all should embrace whatever age we are, do our best to be healthy and active, and not panic when changes occur. When you get another sunrise and sunset, be sure to thank God, as tomorrow is promised to no one. Despair is a waste of time – gratitude will keep you going. Our Creator surely deserves our gratitude for the life we have. Focusing on gratitude will do wonders for your attitude.

Blessings,
Martha Arizpe, St. John’s Prayer Team