I stared out the window wondering what the future holds.
This year, I turn 60. It’s a milestone that begs the question “What have I done with my life?”
Much of the past is a blur as I struggle to recount accomplishments.
Many of us who reach this age can feel as though we haven’t done anything truly great or noteworthy.
I recall youthful dreams that suffered a slow and painful death as life’s twists and turns took over.
I remember the friendships that faded into oblivion as I became busy with my work. Some of those old pals are still around, but now, we have nothing to say to each other.
The years and decades went by in a flash.
This morning, I turned on the radio to hear songs from 40 years ago, bringing back memories that seem like just yesterday.
My body is introducing new aches and pains – some worrisome, others which are simply constant reminders of the relentless ticking of time.
There are days I wish I could stop the clock.
Not so that I can avoid old age. But rather, to give me more time to think – about what I’ve done, and what I can and should do next.
In deeper reflection, I realize or perhaps, more accurately, I hope – that my time on planet earth has not been for naught.
Perhaps things I have said, and things I have done – have inspired others, and I don’t know about it.
I do know that the more we live, the more we appreciate family. The people closest to us, often are those we hurt the most in life – until we finally realize that we need to be grateful for them, love them and appreciate them.
If I can be a kinder, gentler person. If I can step up my game in sharing lessons learned to others, especially younger people. If I can build on my experience to shape a better future.
Cory Galbraith 
And here I am wondering the same thing… 😊..47is coming so I guess I’ve gotta make waves. Each moment here on earth is an accomplishment my friend… You have amassed a lot of living 😊🌻🌻🌻
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Corygalbraith
I am inspired by this article I wrote in similar line an article this morning.
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Happy birthday, Mr. Galbraith! You have helped in healing some scars imprinted on souls, that must mean something… Perhaps is the greatest gift humans can offer in dispelling the misery of the world. I’m sure your messages reached many people who will influence others by their behavior and thoughts… so it is hard to quantify, but effects are already there. I am from Bucharest, Romania, maybe you didn’t expect that… Wish you a beautiful day!
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Thank you Silvia. Your words mean a lot to me. And no, I was not expecting to hear from anyone in Bucharest so you have made my day!
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Thank you.
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I find myself contemplating life more often these days as well. I left the US last year and headed back to Canada, however, I sold everything I owned and purchased a few pieces of furniture and a decent sized one bedroom apartment, I was tired of dragging my belongings all around the US, it was like a noose around my neck that dangled into perpetuity.
What I’ve come to appreciate is the opportunity to still wake up every morning, unlike others who are or were much younger and didn’t have that opportunity. I have two children so I often wonder if I did right by them, that in itself is another story. I try and keep my life simple by making an effort to help others and be considerate, I believe in Karma.
At some point in your life you come to understand that you’ve accumulated wisdom, the question becomes, what will you do with that wisdom. In the last chapter of my life, I want to invest my time in making those around me happy and spending my time building relationships instead of focusing my energy on acquiring stuff.
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Thanks a ton John. Love your last line: ” I want to invest my time in making those around me happy and spending my time building relationships instead of focusing my energy on acquiring stuff.”
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Cory! Great words to start a week…THANK YOU! I sometimes share this with my clients in workshops…those that are wondering the same thing…what have I done in my life?…what’s next?…clients that are ‘changing lanes in life’. I cant’ recall where it came from however, I took this note;…’A life filled with loving deeds and good character is the best tombstone. Those you inspired and shared your life with will remember how you made them feel long after your time has expired. So, carve your name on hearts, not stone. What you have done for yourself alone dies with you; What you have done for others and the world remains…”.
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Ken – fantastic feedback! Love this line” Carve your name on hearts, not stone.” I think that actually says it all, right there !
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Love your post. I’m always thinking about this stuff. Then again, I have been my whole life; obviously even more so as we so consciously realize our years are numbered. I think our greater focus on our mortality is our greatest motivator (not depressor) to live life well, rich with experiences and close relationships, to actively engage in our pursuits, and to open ourselves up to new adventures. Life is an adventure and there is so much out there to connect with. As I like to say, “I wish I had 5 lives” to learn and do and see and be. The main thing for me is always being aware of bringing all that is meaningful into your life. And my question is: What makes you come alive?!
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