A Call to Action for Men in the Second Half of Life
As I recently went through my old journals, I was flooded with memories and reflections. My entries began in 1989 when I was twenty. Back then, I was just a boy on the verge of becoming a man, filled with dreams and optimism. I hadn’t journaled before. The encouragement of Christian friends inspired me to put pen to paper. This act would become a profound part of my growth.
Today, I reflect on those early entries through the lens of my experiences. I realize that this journey has shaped me. I am still becoming the man I aspire to be. I want to share some insights with you. They may inspire your own journey. You are navigating this important stage of life.
– Rekindle Your Innocence: Remember the days when life felt simpler. Your faith was untainted by the complexities of adulthood. Embrace that innocence again! It’s never too late to pursue dreams with that same fervor and clarity. Let go of the cynicism that may have crept in over the years.
– Revisit Your Commitment: Think back to your early passion—when your commitment to your beliefs and values was fresh. That fire is still within you, waiting to be reignited. Draw strength from your values and let them guide your actions today.
– Be Bold in Your Pursuits: Life can present challenges that feel daunting. Now is not the time to retreat. Embrace your calling with courage. The strength gained through experience equips you to take bold risks and pursue your purpose with confidence.
– Stay Humble and Teachable: The learning never stops. Be open to the lessons that life presents. Allow yourself to grow in wisdom, and stay eager for the things that add depth and meaning to your life.
As I reflected on my past, I confronted the reality that my perspective has shifted over time. While the challenges I’ve faced have often led to cynicism, those experiences have profoundly shaped me. Yet, with awareness comes empowerment—the opportunity to change direction.
Reflection is a vital practice, especially at this stage of life. Many men lose themselves in the routine of daily life. They forget to assess who they are. They also forget to evaluate who they want to be. Don’t let that be your story. When life becomes overwhelming, strive to keep your composure and purpose.
Reading through my journals reignited a desire within me to reclaim the passion I had in my youth. If I’m to thrive in the next chapter of my life, it’s time to awaken from the slumber of complacency. I am determined to shed negativity. I will embrace a renewed sense of holiness. This is not a quiet meekness but a fiery passion. It propels me toward my calling.
Think of resilience—like Russell Crowe in Robin Hood. As he rises to face challenges, we too can make a commitment. We can “rise and rise again until lambs become lions” in this crucial part of our lives.
So here’s my challenge to you: Start journaling if you haven’t already. Chronicle your thoughts, aspirations, and the lessons learned along the way. Revisit those entries and track your personal growth. Pay close attention to what ignites your passion and blends seamlessly with your purpose. If you find yourself drifting off course, it’s time to make some changes.
You are worth the effort. Reclaim those dreams from your youth, and embrace the man you are destined to become.
Let go of the baggage that has accumulated over the years. Confess your struggles, seek forgiveness, and allow the Holy Spirit to awaken the fire within you. If you’ve lost your path, now is the moment to remember who you once wanted to be. Take the time to make a plan, seek guidance, and take that all-important first step.
Let’s rise together, not just for ourselves but for the lives we have yet to touch—rise and rise again!
Dr. Ron Geisler 