Forty

Life over forty. Is there?

Forty seems the baseline, give or take a few years, for many people to break out in what we call, mid-life crisis.

It is definitely more serious than a case of acne breaking out on a teenager's face.

People have changed careers, moved to other states or countries, rediscover their passion - all around this roundabout of life. Others find their faith in the unseen God, or in some far out religious philosophies or in humanism, and all the other kinds of isms.

Some left their partners. Others left this world.

It would not be surprising to find some become fanatical and plunge into extremism that ends their lives along with many innocent lives.

Still others become altruistic and give themselves for the good of mankind, to make a difference in some forsaken, out of the way places, to alleviate people's sufferings.

Mid life crisis offers a mixed bag of grains and nuts. Are you there yet? Or have you weathered through that storm and are now sailing smooth waters?

I think I've been through mine. I'm still around, still believing in my life purpose and pursuits. And now more than ever, it's a time of gathering the second wind, of investing in those younger than me, hoping to add value to their lives.

After forty, I discover, it's not really about me per se, but about the cause I believe in and am willing to give the remaining years of my life for - however long or short that may be.

It's about meaningful contribution to others. It's about using what I have to make a difference in someone else's life - even if it is just one life. It's about passing on an inheritance to the next generation.

Parting thoughts - contribute. Don't pollute. Give rather than receive. Light up someone's life today, and everyday.

Life is not over at forty. It need not. Life can get better after forty, but only in giving, for as the good book says, it is more blessed to give than to receive.

Forty is a new beginning.