Time Takes a Toll

Working on and riding around the ranch gives one ample opportunity to see how the passage of time takes a toll on so many things. Whether it’s an old piece of equipment, an old building, or an old horse, there are signs of aging everywhere. Aging or the passage of time, extracts a price. Time wears down, and weathers objects and people. When I look closely at the objects that show the effects of weather and time, it transports me back and makes me wonder how certain equipment or buildings were used. I think of the stories that could be told of the people who used these old fixtures and objects. It makes me feel nostalgic and long for a day when life was much simpler. Above all, it makes me thankful for the hard work and price that generations before us have paid without the benefit of modern conveniences.

Without a doubt, time can steal from us and make us feel like aging is an unfair process. Wrinkles, gray hair, aches and pains, and a loss of strength and energy become the new normal as time passes. I look at ole Chex who is now 31 years old, which in people years would be over 90. Chex still looks very well kept for his age but horses generally have a life expectancy of about 25-30 years. He paid the price of many longs rides to gather cattle and is now retired. He is past being ridden and gets to spend the rest of his life eating, pooping and relaxing. When you study his face, you can see some signs of aging and yet he is so beautiful. You can look in his eyes and get a sense that he is wiser because of his age, and is satisfied to slow down, enjoy life and take it easy.

When I see the old equipment on the ranch, that is no longer used, I appreciate its unique beauty. The passage of time adds a patina or an appearance of something aged with beauty and use. I think that’s why so many people love collecting antiques and vintage décor. The items we find represent more than a decoration; they represent a time where they were well used and had a purpose. It gives us a connection to the past when we value things that have a history and a story to tell. As I grow older, I hope that I carry a patina or an impression or appearance of something beautiful like ole Chex does. I want to share my past experiences and the perspective it has given me. I want my life to have a luster of a love for God and others.

The Bible has many scriptures about time and God’s perspective on it. Just as 2 Peter 3:8 says: But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The reality is our time on earth is limited and fairly short. Although we can have a hope of eternity with God, our time on earth is not meant to last. That is why time takes a toll here on earth. I believe God numbered our days so that we can look forward to a better place and time in heaven and realize this earth is temporary and our future in heaven is going to be soooooo much better.

Not only can we look forward to better days in heaven, we can live out our best days here on earth appreciating all that God has given us. I believe God wants us to embrace aging and appreciate the wisdom and perspective we gain as we grow older. I also believe God wants us to appreciate those who demonstrate a life well lived and learn from their wisdom. Lastly, we should embrace the values and standards of our elders that are rich with experience, instead of always wanting to change the way things are.