20 Jan February 11th Daily Devotion

DON’T LET THE OLD MAN IN

That’s the response the fairly famous nonagenarian actor Clint Eastwood gave to Country singer Toby Keith when asked about his secret to staying active and vibrant at his age.

“Every day when I wake up, I don’t let the old man in.  My secret has been the same since 1959:  staying busy I never let the old man into the house.

I’ve had to drag him out because he was already comfortably settled, bothering me all the time, leaving no space for anything other than nostalgia.

“Stay active, alive, happy, strong, and capable, it’s in us, in our intelligence, attitude, and mentality.  We are young, regardless of our age.  We must learn to fight to not let the old man in.

“that old man awaits us, stationed and tired by the side of the road to discourage us.  I don’t let the old, critical, hostile, envious spirit in—the one that scrutinizes our life to tie us up with complaints, distant anxieties, traumas from the past, and waves of pain.

“You have to turn your back on the old murmurer, full of rage and complaints, lacking courage, denying himself that old age can be creative, determined, and full of light and projection.

“Aging can be pleasant and even fun if you know how to use your time, if you’re satisfied with what you’ve achieved, and if you still maintain enthusiasm.”

Clint Eastwood is a legend with ten Oscar nominations and four actual awards.  All occurred after he crossed the threshold of 60 years of age.  He calls it “not letting the old man into the house.”

These words resonated so deeply with the late country singer Toby Keith that they inspired him to compose the song “Don’t Let The Old Man in,” dedicated to the legendary actor.

The Psalmist wrote:  “The years of our life are seventy.  Some even live to eighty.” (Psalm 90:10)

Clint Eastwood’s birthday is May 31, 1930.  He has lived to become not only a septuagenarian and an octogenarian but also a nonagenarian.  According to my calculations, his life here on earth so far has lasted 94 years, three months and 12 day7s.  And still counting.

Though no one can know how long he or she will live on this earth, a positive attitude, healthful living, and DNA help immeasurably.  So does the grace of God!

Don’t let the old man in!  And thank God for every day of life!

Used with permission

Dr. Gerald B. “Jerry” Kieschnick

Chief Executive Officer, Legacy Deo.  GBJK@LegacyDeo.org  www.legacydeo.org  (512) 646-4909

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