Adventurous Living

"I would rather stand in the full glare of the sun and be judged than to find comfort in the safety of the shadows."¬ -Anonymous

Being willing to experience new things, most of which involve some degree of risk, is key to living a significant and vital life. Living a long life is one thing, but living a long life that has made a difference is far better. We all know people who have lived long, miserable lives. But we also know those who have packed in a lot of adventure and meaning into their years. It is the latter who still have sparkles in their eyes and smiles on their faces.

As for me, I have always wanted to live a life of significance and adventure-even though this sometimes means to live life on the edge. Years ago, I came across a saying that I have adopted as part of my personal and ministry philosophy. I am not sure who said it, but it works for me: "I would rather stand in the full glare of the sun and be judged than to find comfort in the safety of the shadows."

There is far too much in life to remain complacent and risk-free. God has given me a big vision for our ministry and it's full of challenges. Consequently, there is little time to sit in the shade. But when the full glare of the sun is scorching and even frightening, it is then that I am most dependent on God and his ability to do what I cannot. My significance goes beyond risk and adventure into faith and trust in God.

There are a number of people midlife and beyond who are daring to risk-each finding new challenges, living boldly, and finding ways to experience fun and adventure. Among them are my good friends, Pat and Dawn Morris, from Rio Verde, Arizona. They are an exciting couple who live a life of faith and live abundantly. And, like me, they enjoy the adventure and sport of Cowboy Mounted Shooting. This is one of the ways that I stay active and challenge myself.  While I have been a horseman for a lot of years, I started competing in Cowboy Mounted Shooting only about two years ago. I've got a good horse, and I keep working at getting better with each competition. As one of my personal goals that I still hope to accomplish, I would like to qualify for the world finals of Cowboy Mounted Shooting.  Of course, there are those who think I am a bit too old to be competing in an extreme sport like this. But my response to that kind of thinking is, "I am not too old as long as I can do it." For now, I am going to give it my best and relish the excitement and the fun.

It seems to me that there is an unwritten cultural belief that suggests when you reach a certain age, it is time to head to the sidelines, grab a rocking chair, and watch the world go by. Unfortunately, far too many do just that. Even though their bodies are still fit and they have a lot of potential left, they think "old," and soon their bodies follow. I have met people in their 60s who look and act like they are in their 70s or 80s, but I have also met people in their 70s and even 80s who look and act like they are in their 60s. One of these is Elsa, a lady from Chico, California. Elsa is 102 years old and she still enjoys playing a weekly round of golf with friends. Recently, she became the oldest woman to make a hole in one!

While not everyone is going to be able to play golf at Elsa's age, I admire her for not accepting the myth that she is too old to play. It may well be that Elsa is 102 because she didn't place those kinds of limitations on herself.  I believe that much of aging is in our minds. Research has shown that people who have a positive attitude about life and stay active not only live longer but stay more mentally fit as well. While the goal should not be to stay young, it should be to be your best at each season of life. Don't accept the belief that you are too old to live adventurously and have fun. Instead, be involved, find your place, and give it your best.