Happy Tuesday, my dear reader. I hope this vacation period is a recharging one for you, a moment you can spend in serenity and where you can enjoy those simple things that actually matter.
Now, I described in a previous post how much I like the summertime and my days off the usual routine. If you missed it, you can read it here.
This year we planned our usual vacation at the seaside and we went again to Tuscany in the same hotel we booked last year.
Unfortunately, the weather was not as good as I had wished, and we managed to go to the beach only a couple of days in the whole week. But that’s another story, and basically, there’s not much we could do about that.
As I said, we stayed at the same place as last year: most of the personnel were the same, some have changed. In any case, they are all very young.
I don’t feel old (yet), don’t get me wrong. I’m nearly 45, however, it’s enough to say that, technically, those guys and girls could even be my kids.
Every Wednesday evening, the staff plans a weekly party, hosting live music, preparing a special dinner and a huge buffet by the pool. And, of course, dance, Karaoke, and a final jump into the pool.
This year we managed to enjoy the party more than last year. Simone, our son, had more fun as he knew the location better and all was good.
On a funny note, when the singer of the band asked what song we wanted to hear, Simone, 8 years old, grabbed him by the arm and asked for “Rock You Like a Hurricane” by Scorpions.
No need to say the singer complimented us for the great job we’re doing with him 😃
So, as I mentioned, the party was joyful and full of energy. And when it was almost over, with guests already going back to their rooms, I found myself sitting on a chair looking at the guys of the staff.
They were still drinking and singing and dancing and jumping. They still had so much energy, even after a day at work, that made me feel like an old mummy.
And that brought me back to when I was a teenager. Watching them enjoying, totally carefree, the great time they were having, made me jump back when it was my turn to be like that.
The reality of adult responsibilities, problems, and thoughts hit me like a hammer for the first time.
I realized I’m missing the roar of those years.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying I would trade my current age for that (with the exception of some health issues dropping on me along the way).
I’m happy with what I have now. My family, my son, my love. A job that allows me to live nicely.
The experience I gained during my walk.
However, even considering all of this, I cannot forget the freedom of mind I felt as a teenager. I know this is something that’s valid for the majority of us, but realizing that time passes is, well, a tough acknowledgement.
I stayed there looking at them for a while more. I suddenly started to list the things I can no longer do (sports, as a first thing. My arthritis is not doing well with sports), but when I started to feel that bittersweet taste that’s typical of nostalgia, my kid popped up and I immediately became aware of the amazing things I have now.
In the end, getting old is part of the game, and, honestly, the alternative is not that appealing…
Getting old means acquiring more experience. I need to let some things go to make room for others to come.
I know this post is not related to photography, however, I said many times that this newsletter is my way of sharing experiences.
Getting old is also an incredible experience.
Take care and talk soon!