The Tao has no preference for one thing over another. Everything belongs, without distinction. Therefore it never tires and is always new and fresh. We, of course, make distinctions, exhausting ourselves by preferring this, and disdaining that; clinging here and avoiding there. How sad, for we were made for quiet peace and joy. The Tao Te Ching - Chapter 5
As Shakespeare once said,
(He must have, somewhere in his works)
“I’m too old for this shit.”
Thing is, I’m discovering that I actually really am.
I spent thirty minutes yesterday shoveling snow,
clearing a path between the cabin and the motor home.
I spent the rest of the day recovering
and today I’m still tired, and still it snows.
(As, of course, it should this time of year.)
As I sit and watch the flakes pour down
to erase yesterday’s work, I am subdued.
No amount of good health,
and I am quite truly in good health,
can cover the reality of seventy-seven years.
My life will need to change in the coming year.
(Is there no end to transitions?)
I can’t caretake a mountain property any more.
Somewhere inside is a small voice,
difficult to hear amidst the noise,
that whispers:
“The best is yet to come, but it won’t be the same old illusion
of imperviousness and endless energy.
It will be quiet and unobtrusive,
with no need to impose a thing upon the world.
You really are too old for this shit.
It’s time to leave the shit behind
and find what lies beneath.”
Still, it’s sad somehow.
You know the feeling.
We all do.
That’s why we come together
in all the ways we can.
William Martin 
Amen to that Brother Martin!
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So true!
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The afternoon nap, which I ridiculed in my younger days, has become a sacred ritual for me now. Thanks.
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Absolutely! The nap is my “resting Qigong”
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I really resonated with this Bill. I am looking forward to reading about your next transition and your writing about it. It helps with my own journey through getting older and gives it a new dimension.
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This is great..however.. don’t stop shoveling just yet!🤗
~ Ruth
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10 minutes this afternoon – that’s it!
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When you are in the wrong hole, stop digging.
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Bill,
I have commented twice (about shoveling about your post on your WordPress site . I am so grateful to you for sharing your direct experience in such an honest way.
But your site doesn’t like me. It says I “did not succeed “ because my e-mail address was ‘improper’.
Now I have to get my shovel out, and deal with this shit! Thankfully I can do it from the comfort of my chair!
I am so grateful for your enduring strength and wisdom.
Love, 🔆Jim
PS: I think you should move to NC! Come take a look.
Sent from my iPhone
>
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Oh, those “improper” e-mail addresses! Thank you, my friend.
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Love to you, Bill. This 73.5 year old gets it. May you get clarity on what is next. ♥️
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Continued good health to you! I’m most grateful for your strong & sage spiritual health! Onward through the fog (and snow!).
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