Frank J. Buchman

Cowboy • Horseman • Writer

Maturity Is Good Thing

“Getting old is not so bad after all.”

Some quickly respond, “It sure beats the alternative.”

Most nod in agreement. Yet those of us with strong faith are sure hereafter is far better than the best imaginable.

Youngsters anticipate birthdays for the presents and parties. Excitement dwindles in adulthood, even to a dread.

There are those who forget the day and honestly can’t remember how many. The more mature the more that’s the way it is.

Others contend it’s all in the mind: “A man is only as old as he feels.” They never look in the mirror.

Still, without a doubt, our day last week had to be one of the most delightful in reflection. Perhaps the best ever, admitting our memory’s far from perfect.

It didn’t start out that way. So foggy could barely see the road ahead pulling out of the driveway about 6:20.

Got three miles up the highway and realized the cellphone was still back on the kitchen counter.  Really hate and embarrassed to admit it, but life, rather professional survival, depends on that danged communication device.

Got back, picked up phone, pushed throttle onto the highway, and went less than a 100 yards, a big doe jumped out of the east ditch right in front of the car.

Braking instantly just missed her inches as a big blotch of mud evidently from her hind legs splattered on the windshield leaving one glob and a dozen splotches.

Blessings of the day had begun.

Arrival at work, shock struck with our cellar cubbyhole office decked in cowboy festivity. Happy Birthday in bright nine-inch letters accentuated with large cowboy caricature, hats, scarf, spur, horseshoes, ropes, chocolate candy and party favors.

It was a day long of definitely unplanned celebration.

Dozens of well-wishers, handshakes, cards, token gifts, donuts, cake, orneriness, emails, Facebook greetings. Smiles and happiness in abundance.

So very thankful for so many great friends. Life really is good. Getting more mature actually has plenty of inconceivable perks.

Reminds us of  Numbers 6:24-26: “The Lord bless you and watch, guard, and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon and enlighten you and be gracious, kind, merciful, and giving favor to you; The Lord lift up His approving countenance upon you and give you peace tranquility of heart and life continually.”

+++ALLELUIA+++

XI–4–1-22-17

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