What Counts

"It's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years." -Abe Lincoln

I came across this quote the other day and felt encouraged, especially since I was feeling like the years were catching up with me. But how in the world do you put life in your years??

My nephew likes to buy candy. Oh, he doesn't buy it for himself, at least not for the most part, but acquires it to use to his advantage against his elder brother. He learned of his weakness/craving for chocolate and if he hits it just right is sometimes offered exorbant sums for a candy bar.

His mom, who has become streetwise (or shall we say child-wise), at times gets the benefits of her chocolate loving sons, as well. She has her own secret stash of candy, which is produced at the most opportune times. She, however, prefers exchanging chocolate for a foot massage, rather than loonies.

I must say I rather enjoy chocolate myself and like to have some on hand "just in case" a craving hits. What a waste of time and money to have to drive all the way to town just for some chocolate! Of course, that wouldn't be a problem if my nephew lived nearby. I'm sure I could obtain some from him if I named a high enough price. I never thought of such a thing, when I was a child, as making money reselling candy bars to my brother or sisters. Shoot! I could've been a rich woman by now!

Well, money isn't everything and neither is chocolate, but a little of either is rather nice now and then. I have some chocolate setting on my desk right now, as a matter of fact. I eye it every now and then and sternly tell myself I've had enough for one day.

This sounds like the life in my years is chocolate but it's really not. I think enjoying the little things every day is what makes life good. Living for the moment instead of regretting the past and dreaming about the future.

So...what puts life in your years??