"You will not become what you do not want to be. The next part of your life there will be people who want to define you, based on their expectations. Don't let them."

Wiser words were never uttered. We truly are the masters of our own destinies. It's just such a strange thing to see members of my own generation (X) slip into the same habits and roles of members of the previous generations. For some reason I thought our generation would be different. I'm seeing so many losing their spark and sense of wonder.

It's great to hear you've managed to keep your spark. There's such power in that and it gives a person a lot of resilience. My Mom, more than anyone, taught me to not only appreciate the "little things" but be in a kind of awe of them — sunrises/sunsets, wildlife, beautiful landscapes, etc. I can't imagine how dull life would be without having that kind of appreciation.

You're right, I've experienced quite a bit of loss since 2020. I imagine, soon enough, I'll have more friends, relatives, and acquaintances on the other side of the veil than this one.

If you don't mind my asking, what are some of your favorite parts about getting older?