Day 35: Looking a bit weathered?

Weathered, Pickity Place, Mason, NH, March 2008,

Nikon D40, 35mm focal length equiv. 53mm, Exposure 1/100 sec @ f5, ISO 200, no flash, exposure bias -1/3

© Steven Crisp [Click on the photo to enlarge]

So how have the years been treating you?  Are you starting to look a little "weathered".  Showing the signs of age yet?  And how do you feel about it?

Youth and freshness are certainly emphasized in our culture, on TV, in magazines, etc.  And some folks even try to keep the appearance of age at bay with cosmetic surgery.  But to me, that just means they are "hooked" by our culture, and are that much more likely to endure suffering.

We all age.  In other cultures, age is revered for it brings with it experience and wisdom.  And, of course, it is nothing, if not a natural process.  It just "is".  And it applies equally to us all.

My recommendation is to embrace that weathered look.  Find your own style and become distinguished and serene.  Wisdom really is all that it's cracked up to be -- don't wish it away for unnatural youthfulness.  Of course, continue to emphasize natural health and exercise, and continued exploration and self-reflection to develop your wisdom.

Then you can wear that "weathered" look with great presence and radiate a deep inner peace and beauty.

• Donation:  Gift for the lady who cleaned my hotel room all week.
• Exercise:  Walking through the very large Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam (30 mins)