You as an individual are either growing or dying on a mental, emotional, and spiritual level. Physically too; however, that is another story as your cells rejuvenate at different rates. Thus, your physical body is both growing and dying at the same time! (http://science.howstuffworks.com/life/cellular-microscopic/does-body-really-replace-seven-years2.htm).
Now this also pertains to our inner self, our spirit, our soul. This makes sense when you think of evolution. Human progress and move forward, striving for more, growing and developing. (I know it may not seem that way at times though!)
Let me give you an example so you can understand what I mean: if you are happy with your work and you are continuing to learn, you are growing. If not, you are most likely dying.
Do you know people who live to a ripe old age? Is it because they live their passions? I wouldn't be surprised at all if the answer was a resounding "YES!"
One person whom I think of in this regard is a local man named Dal(las) Richards, a big band leader who is 97 years old or young, depending on how you look at him.
According to BC (British Columbian) researchers, Dal is a "remarkable and rare, super-healthy old person, an entity researchers call Super Seniors." He is being studied as to why some people never get cancer. Apparently he is or seems to be an exception!
In fact, scientists are studying him to see what his secret is to longevity: "Life has been a stage for Richards since he was 16 and it’s the music, the performing, the adoring fans, the durable friendships with his band mates that he credits for keeping him healthy and vital."
Wouldn't you think that happiness and living your passions would have you kick around longer than most, perhaps even disease-free? ;)
Photo of Dal in 2009 (at age 91) from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dal_Richards.
I totally agree with you on that..Only when we do what we love, we grow..other than that, it's just waste of time..
ReplyDeleteGreat Post!
Interesting choice of words: "...just a waste of time..." which makes ME wonder! ;) <3
DeleteWe start getting old when we stop dreaming or when we give up our passions! Great post Eli :)
ReplyDeleteGod is a Gamer
I like what you have to say Swathi: a great point! :) And thanks! <3
DeleteSo true! If only we do what we love and are passionate about does life becomes meaningful, and once that happens growth and happiness comes naturally
ReplyDeleteHow true Naba regarding your comments: Right on! :) <3
DeleteTrue and I agree. When you asked 'Do you know people who live to a ripe old age?', the first names that popped into my head were Usha Menon and Vidya Sury :) Their passion to writing is inspirational! Thanks for a great post, Eli :)
ReplyDeleteThanks. :) Yes, great examples of inspiration though I didn't think Vidya was that old! ;) <3
DeleteIt makes sense that happiness and longevity go hand in hand. Loved the inspiring story about Dallas Richards. This really struck a chord: "if you are happy with your work and you are continuing to learn, you are growing. If not, you are most likely dying." I was stuck in a horrible job once and it definitely felt like that!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your comments Debbie. :) I am glad you loved the story and a chord was struck! ;) Yes, you either grow or die in every moment and that includes work too! ;) <3
DeleteAgree, doing what makes you happy is a sure shot recipe for success. And that translates in all spheres of life.
ReplyDelete...including longevity too, right?! ;) <3
DeleteI believe one has to live a happy and healthy life from the beginning to be healthier at old age. All the bad habits of younger days hit hard when one gets old. he definitely doesn't look like 97 :)
ReplyDeleteI would think that preferably, yes, from the beginning would be ideal! Yes, doesn't he look great! Unfortunately he died a few days before his 98th birthday, right on New Year's Eve. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dal_Richards)
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