On Reaching 100

Summary

The author reflects on the milestone of reaching 100, not just in age but also in the number of stories and poems shared, expressing gratitude for the community's support and the joy of writing.

Abstract

The author shares a personal reflection prompted by a conversation with friends about centenarians in Japan. They recall two aunts, one who reached 100 and another close to that age, pondering what it would mean for themself to live that long. The focus shifts from longevity in years to the accomplishment of writing 100 stories and poems, with a nod to publications like Illumination and Spiritual Tree on Medium that have showcased their work. The author expresses surprise at reaching this creative milestone, initially unsure of their commitment to writing, but found inspiration in the community and the art of storytelling. While acknowledging the financial rewards of writing, the author emphasizes the greater satisfaction comes from informing, inspiring, and especially encouraging others. With a commitment to continue writing, the author hopes their words will bring joy, respite, and hope to readers, and concludes with a blessing for their audience's well-being and creative endeavors.

Opinions

The author values sharpness of mind and the ability to communicate, as evidenced by their appreciation for their aunts' mental acuity and letter-writing.
Reaching the age of 100 is associated with both physical challenges and the opportunity for continued creativity and personal growth.
The author places a premium on the intrinsic rewards of writing, such as joy and inspiration, over financial gain.
Community engagement and mutual support within the writing platform are seen as crucial to the author's continued motivation and success.
There is a deep sense of gratitude for the readers' engagement with their work, as comments and readership are a source of delight.
The act of writing is portrayed as a source of personal fulfillment and a means to connect with and encourage others.
The author views their writing as a gift to readers, hoping to provide encouragement, joy, respite, and inspiration.
The author believes in the power of words to convey thoughts that are worth sharing and to have a positive impact on others.

A Poem on Aging and Accomplishment

I was meeting with some friends On this marvelous thing called “Zoom.” One friend said That in Japan Many are reaching 100 years of age.

I had an aunt, a great aunt, actually Who reached that amazing age She was still sharp but complained For many years that she Could not eat a thing.

I have another aunt who is 91 And she may make 100, too. She’s still sharp as a pin And writes long letters to me About this and that.

I doubt that I shall ever reach that age But if I did, what would it mean? If given another 25 years, what would I do? I’d write more, that’s for sure. And, I’d pray for good health to get me through.

But I want to talk about another 100 mark Not of years but of stories told and Poems written, some true, some not. Of hours spent composing thoughts With the hope they’d find a home in your heart.

Thanks to publications like Illumination And Spiritual Tree here on Medium, You’ve seen them all, read a few, and Commented on many to my delight So thank you for your readership.

With this poem I’ve reached that 100 mark. I don’t know what to say. I did not know when I started out If I would continue or depart. I did not know the platform.

But I knew a little of the art, So I persisted and found much inspiration In the stories that you wrote. I followed you and learned the ropes And made a few bucks along the way

If I keep up the pace I may write 1000 before I turn 80. But quantity is not my goal; Rather I want to inform and inspire And encourage, most of all encourage.

I want to continue to experience the joy That writing brings, you know what I mean. To sit down and spread words across the screen Spending hours thinking and recording thoughts Tweaking words to get it right.

Now I move onward and upward. Though I pause to take stock And review where I’ve been I have more stories and poems to write. I do hope that some will please.

May you find in the words I write Some encouragement, some joy, Some respite, Words that inspire and give you hope, Perhaps a thought to ponder through the day.

Now may God bless you as you go your way And watch over you this day Keeping you safe and healthy Filling your mind with thoughts That must be shared.

Happy Reading, Writing and Connecting!