The Last Quarter

The thought has crossed my mind several times lately that I am probably in the last quarter of my life. The average current adult life span in the United States is 76 years.  The older I get, the more I realize that it doesn’t take long to get to 76. Time flies when you’re having fun. But are you having fun?

Being in the last quarter is not a negative or gloomy thought for me at all. It is instead a time of gratitude, reflection, and contemplation. 

Gratitude for where I am in this moment.  Gratitude for all that I have.

Reflection related to the past with all the experiences and lessons learned. 

Contemplation over questions such as, what do I want the last quarter of my life to look like, feel like, and be like?  What experiences do I want to have in the last quarter? The beauty is that it’s all up to me and me alone. We have that beautiful gift called choice. 

I have been working a tremendous amount lately, which has only led me to think about things more. I am feeling more like a human doing as opposed to a human being. In this last quarter, I want to be, and not just do. It is about balance, which is something I’ve been lacking. Again, we get to carve out what it is we want our lives to look like.  

I think of my Mother who worked very hard until the age of 72. Three months after her retirement, she was gone in a tragic car accident. It is important to experience life today. In this last quarter I want to be less fixated on getting things done and instead just enjoy the journey. Seems I am always striving and trying to cross the finish line. I end up many times missing the beauty of being right where I am now. I have learned that for me, new insight and guidance comes from accepting where I am right now and being present with what is.  

From an optimal health perspective, I want to be the best I can be physically, mentally, and spiritually in this last quarter. That may look different for each of us but again, it is up to each individual. No matter what quarter you are in, you can make it what you want it to be. Time is precious. 

I want to live, love, and serve more in this last quarter. I want to spend more time appreciating and being aware of this very moment, with no thought about the past or future. I want to take care of the body I’ve been given through proper nutrition and activity. I want to facilitate my spiritual growth through prayer, meditation, and anything that feeds my spiritual being. I want to take better care of my mental health by filtering the thousands of thoughts that come into my mind daily being careful not to give focus to the negative. Focus on the positive. Remember what we focus on expands. Where we place our attention is where we place our energy. 

For me, quality of life is more important than quantity. I realized during reflection that much of my life has been spent on obtaining material things. I want that degree. I want that new car. I want that house. I want a swimming pool in the back yard. Want, want, want. Do you find yourself always wanting material things? What about your quality of life? Are you peaceful, happy, fulfilled and living life with intention and purpose?  

Experiences or Material Possessions? Which is more important to you? Do you want a new dress, new set of boobs, new car………….or do you want an incredible experience that will transform your life and lead to personal growth and evolvement? Perhaps a spiritual retreat, a trip to another country, or weekend away with loved ones. Maybe a gift to someone in need as opposed to something material for yourself. 

I believe most of us have way more than we need in terms of material possessions. Growing up in a house with no indoor bathroom, I realize that now many people have 2 and 3 bathrooms. A lot of people have 2 and 3 cars. We can live with much less than we have. A lot of people are living with the bare necessities but they are very happy. On the other hand, many people have everything material and are not happy at all. They have the 3 bathrooms and the 3 cars. Unfortunately, the 3 bathrooms and 3 cars do not translate to happiness. They do nothing for our evolvement and personal growth. They do nothing for our spiritual awakening. 

Why would 2 people need a 4000 square foot home with a 3-car garage and a tiny home in the backyard? Again, there are people living in 400 square feet and are perfectly happy. 

In this my last quarter, I choose experiences over material things. Regardless of what quarter you are in, stop and evaluate where you are and what’s important to you. Is that huge home important? Does it bring you inner happiness? Does it connect you to your spirit? Does it awaken you? 

What changes would you like to make to ensure the last quarter of life is fulfilled, content, happy and purposeful. What changes would you like to make whatever stage you are in?

I look forward to your thoughts and feedback and as always am deeply grateful for your existence, love, and support. 

Much love,

Vince

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Hi, I’m Vince. I am a Critical Care Registered Nurse, Author, and Speaker. Welcome to my site. On this site you will be provided inspirational, educational, motivational and thought provoking articles. It is my mission to have this information help you achieve Optimal Health which includes your  Physical Health, Spiritual Health, and Mental Health. My ultimate goal is to create change and stimulate self-healing. I would love to have your support by entering your email address on this site to receive my monthly articles. I look forward to your feedback.

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