WE ALL share certain problems as we develop. The typical outlook of the young is overly optimistic and lacking in compassion, leaving them unprepared for the losses to be faced tomorrow. In contrast, too often, older people can be so consumed with cynicism brought about by yesterday’s suffering that they have difficulty enjoying today.
George Santayana said, “The young man who has not wept is a savage, and the old man who will not laugh is a fool.”
As we grow up, we have some understanding that we will face disappointments and grow old and, as we age, we can learn, as Martin Buber said, “What a glorious thing it is to grow old in a young way.”
The art of growing older without getting old is to retain the youthful joy of being alive.