Sitting Under the Shade
Turning 50 comes with a myriad of cliches:
- Not caring what other people think.
- Taking stock of what's really important.
- Focusing on health or other things that have been neglected for years.
But for me, the biggest realization that has come with turning 50 is gaining a better understanding of how I want to spend my time.
My interest in routine maintenance, administrative tasks, and general obligations has diminished. I still do a lot of cleaning around the house. But if it's tasks like house maintenance or yard work, I'd gladly pay someone and gain a couple of hours in return.
My interest in tackling big projects or trying to make impactful changes has also waned. Particularly at work, where I'm happy to just do my job and not add any hassle to my day.
There's a proverb about planting trees under whose shade one will never sit. It's about doing the work and sacrificing knowing the reward will be reaped by others.
I'm not interested.
I want to enjoy what's already here. I want to savor the seasons. I want to relish in all the books and art (in all its forms) that already exist. I want to experience the fulfillment and pleasure of a great meal.
I'm ready to let others do the heavy lifting that change requires.