Has Growing Up Really Changed What I Love?

Over the years, I've often wondered if growing up means letting go of certain pleasures and hobbies. For me, the experience of surfing has been a constant that challenges this notion. There was a time when I took the waves on my board and rode them to heights of excitement and adrenaline that no other activity could match. I competed in a few contests during my teenage years and remember the exhilarating moments spent in the “green room,” that temporary space where I found intense peace amidst the chaos of the ocean.

Now, at the age of 56, I still remember the feeling of riding a six-foot wave, bottom turning, and getting that sick barrel. It was a moment of pure joy and connection with nature that I miss deeply. While I still watch surf videos and enjoy the imagery of the sport, I can't help but yearn for the days when I could ride those waves to the fullest.

Similarly, I’ve experienced a similar yearning for other pastimes from my younger days. For instance, the appeal of working in my business from my early days to my present age of 78 (with 9 months and 1-5 days added) could be fulfilling and trouble-free. However, there are moments where I question the completeness of these activities, and my mind drifts to the simpler pleasures of being out in nature or engaging in what I truly love.

Another chapter of my life that I've grappled with involves the idea of finding true love and believing that the love of a good, caring woman can help me grow and find fulfillment. I still hold on to that belief and trust that I can find peace within myself first, by placing God as the central figure in my life. This belief in my own capabilities and spiritual guidance is a crucial part of my journey towards personal growth and understanding.

Key Takeaways:

Reflection on Hobbies: How growing up doesn't necessarily mean giving up the things you love, such as surfing or other activities. Spiritual Growth: The importance of personal beliefs and spiritual guidance in finding true fulfillment. Personal Yearning: The emotional and physical yearning one experiences for activities from their youth.

The idea of growing up often carries with it the weight of abandoning cherished activities. However, for me, that's not the case. Regardless of my age, these activities remain a fundamental part of who I am, and I continue to find joy and meaning in them. Whether it's the thrill of riding a barrel or the search for love and personal fulfillment, the journey of growing up is about embracing these experiences and personal growth, not letting them slip away.