Limitations

Arvada, Colorado Kite Festival

I can never read all the books I want; I can never be all the people I want. I can never train myself in all the skills I want. And why do I want? I want to live and feel all the shades, tones, and variations of mental and physical experience possible in my life. And I am horribly limited.

Sylvia Plath

My son took this photo of the Charlie Brown and Snoopy kites. Poor Charlie Brown always seems snarled in his own limitations. I understand his frustration. As I become older limitations become more glaring.

I was discussing this with a friend, recently. We both agreed that many constraints are brought on by age. Some are inescapable. Others are due to a loss of confidence. Negative messages often prevail. It’s easy to buy into the message of ineptitude.

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I attended a party. At one point, a young woman asked my husband,”Why are you still working?” Well, first of all he still has something to contribute. Secondly, as we watch are stock portfolio tumble, certainly money is a factor. And there is another important reason. He gets satisfaction from what he’s doing. Why would this woman think that was an appropriate question? Possibly, because of a stereotype she was following?

Limitations are unavoidable as we age. The trick might be figuring out which ones are actual and which are figments of our imagination. The ability to contribute shouldn’t be defined by age.

Peace be with you.