As I enter the twilight of my life, I often find myself pondering, "Is this truly the happiest time?" And each time, I arrive at the same conclusion: "Yes, indeed, this is the happiest I've ever been."
Young people often view old age with pity. But what they fail to grasp is the serenity and freedom that comes with advancing years. I'm reminded of a philosophy professor from Yonsei University who, at the remarkable age of 103, when asked which period of his life he'd like to return to, replied, "My mid-60s" - around the time of retirement. I deeply resonated with his sentiment.
The fierce struggles and efforts of youth were undoubtedly valuable, but they pale in comparison to the maturity and freedom I now enjoy. Isn't this period, where one is liberated from obligations and can fully utilize their abilities and knowledge, the true epitome of happiness?
I still went to school every day. Though I no longer held an official title, the theological research institute had become my second home. Some might wonder why I still showed up daily, but for me, it was a wellspring of joy. I strived to contribute to the school, sometimes offering financial assistance, other times enhancing its reputation through my writings.
Recently, I was on the brink of publishing a commentary that took a decade to complete. The thought of accomplishing this while juggling administrative duties as a chancellor and teaching responsibilities as a professor filled me with pride. Isn't this sense of achievement a privilege of my age?
My current happiness is a blend of fond memories from the past and present tranquility. Sure, there are physical discomforts that come with aging, but I've come to accept them as a natural part of life's journey. No one bothers me anymore, nor do they envy me. I have the freedom to do as I please.
When I feel like traveling, I go. When I'm asked to write, I gladly oblige. Sometimes the requests become overwhelming, but even that is something to be grateful for. It brings me joy to know that I can still be of use to someone.
While every moment of life is precious, true happiness can sometimes arrive unexpectedly. It's crucial to live fully in the present while letting go of fears about the future. The best moment of your life might still be yet to come.
I am happy today, I will be happy tomorrow, and I will continue to be happy in the future. Why? Because this very moment is the happiest time of my life.
Young people often view old age with pity. But what they fail to grasp is the serenity and freedom that comes with advancing years. I'm reminded of a philosophy professor from Yonsei University who, at the remarkable age of 103, when asked which period of his life he'd like to return to, replied, "My mid-60s" - around the time of retirement. I deeply resonated with his sentiment.
The fierce struggles and efforts of youth were undoubtedly valuable, but they pale in comparison to the maturity and freedom I now enjoy. Isn't this period, where one is liberated from obligations and can fully utilize their abilities and knowledge, the true epitome of happiness?
I still went to school every day. Though I no longer held an official title, the theological research institute had become my second home. Some might wonder why I still showed up daily, but for me, it was a wellspring of joy. I strived to contribute to the school, sometimes offering financial assistance, other times enhancing its reputation through my writings.
Recently, I was on the brink of publishing a commentary that took a decade to complete. The thought of accomplishing this while juggling administrative duties as a chancellor and teaching responsibilities as a professor filled me with pride. Isn't this sense of achievement a privilege of my age?
My current happiness is a blend of fond memories from the past and present tranquility. Sure, there are physical discomforts that come with aging, but I've come to accept them as a natural part of life's journey. No one bothers me anymore, nor do they envy me. I have the freedom to do as I please.
When I feel like traveling, I go. When I'm asked to write, I gladly oblige. Sometimes the requests become overwhelming, but even that is something to be grateful for. It brings me joy to know that I can still be of use to someone.
While every moment of life is precious, true happiness can sometimes arrive unexpectedly. It's crucial to live fully in the present while letting go of fears about the future. The best moment of your life might still be yet to come.
I am happy today, I will be happy tomorrow, and I will continue to be happy in the future. Why? Because this very moment is the happiest time of my life.
