I don’t know too many people — except teenagers — who get excited about birthdays. The older we get, the less we look forward to the big ones: 30; 40; 50; 60. There is no turning back the clock, and the alternatives to not hitting our personal ‘big ones’ are not particularly pleasant.
With age comes wisdom, and a mellow approach to life. My days of unabashed abandon are long gone, and I find myself to be more of a thinking man, then ever before. Maybe my writings have something to do with that. I find myself reading more (not a strong suit in my past).
I have learned that deep loss changes us deeply. That, as I get older, I worry more about my family and those who I love. I have learned not to sweat the ‘small stuff,’ and have no desire to trade places with anyone — Mr. Bill Gates included.
I have a deep appreciation for my lot in life, and the many blessings of the multitude of my Hindu Goddesses and Gods. I have always been spiritual. I was raised that way.
I am less impressed with those that have money, and more by those that have a generosity of spirit — those that make a positive difference in the lives of others.
I take particular pride in the success of my students. It’s a sense of satisfaction that is difficult to express in words. The ability to mentor and touch a young life has created a sense of purpose for me that is special. I try and tell them that I am on their side. This is not a ‘me vs. them’ equation. It’s tough concept for them to grasp. Maybe our education system is warped?
My promise to myself moving forward? In the words of the immortal, Mahatma Gandhi, “I plan to be the change that I want to see in this world, one person at a time.”
About Hemant Rustogi