By Shahzada Ahsan Ashraf
THE FINAL CHAPTER OF LIFE… Can’t even bend down to tie my shoelace again!
Most of us find ourselves in the latter stages of life, and it’s important to reflect on this insightful piece of advice. This article offers gentle reflections without delving into politics, religion, or racial issues – just pure food for thought.
Time has a peculiar way of slipping away, often catching us by surprise as the years fly by. It feels like just yesterday I was young, embarking on life’s journey. Yet, in other moments, it seems like eons ago, leaving me to ponder where all the years have vanished. Though I’ve lived through them all, memories of yesteryears, hopes, and dreams flicker in my mind.
Now, as I find myself in the final leg of my journey, it’s startling how swiftly time has passed. How did I arrive here so swiftly? Where did my youth vanish? I vividly recall observing older individuals throughout the years, believing their age was distant from mine. Yet, here I am, witnessing the signs of aging in myself and my peers, a realization that the fourth quarter of life has swiftly crept upon us.
Each day presents new challenges; simple tasks like showering become achievements, and napping isn’t a luxury but a necessity. As I navigate this new phase, I confront the reality of unfulfilled aspirations and the physical limitations hindering pursuits I once envisioned. Yet, amid regrets, there’s a sense of contentment for the experiences embraced and lessons learned.
For those not yet in the final quarter, let this serve as a reminder: time waits for none. Pursue your dreams, cherish your loved ones, and seize each moment with purpose. Life is a precious gift, and happiness lies in cherishing every moment.
Remember, true wealth lies not in material possessions but in health and relationships. Embrace the simplicity of life’s pleasures, find solace in nostalgia, and cherish the company of old friends.
So, whether you’re in the first quarter or the final, embrace each day with gratitude and live life to the fullest. After all, it’s not about what you accumulate but the impact you make and the memories you leave behind.
(The writer is a Former Chairman and Managing Director PIA, Former Federal Minister of industries and production)
