I am a CPA and have over 1,900 active clients whose tax returns I prepare each year. When you include their spouses, that number grows to around 3,500 people. Over the years, I have come to know many of them quite well.
Lately, I have noticed a pattern. Many people are getting sick just as their children have left home and they are entering retirement. For some, it is a real shame. After working their entire lives, they finally reach retirement age with some savings and equity in their home. Yet many no longer have the health or energy to enjoy their so-called golden years, the years they were told would be filled with travel, vacations, and the freedom to do what they want.
Life Is Short — Live It Now
I have also seen many clients pass away before the age of 75. Others struggle with cancer or serious illnesses. Often, they end up leaving their estates to their children, who are already living their own lives. The reason I bring this up is simple: you have to live each day wisely, as if it were part of your bucket list. A bucket list represents the things you hope to do before it is too late.
I have known many of these clients for decades. I remember when some of them were young couples just starting families. Some even sent me pictures when they were expecting their first child. Now their hair has turned gray, and many face one physical challenge after another.
Life Is a Miracle Worth Celebrating
What happened to recognizing that life itself is a miracle, that simply being alive is something to celebrate?
Recently, I met with two clients who had both undergone triple bypass surgery. One was struggling and discouraged, while the other was cheerful and positive. I have known both of them for over 40 years. This weekend, I will also attend a funeral—what many now call a celebration of life.
Why I Keep Going at 77
Sometimes I think about retiring myself. Last year I took three months off, but I did not enjoy it very much. I like staying busy and meeting with people. I want to keep my mind active. I could volunteer somewhere, but I also enjoy seeing people move through the stages of their lives.
At 77, I do not feel old. I lift weights, eat healthy organic food, and hike five times a week. Taking care of your health is, in many ways, the essence of spirituality. Spirituality, as I see it, is the use of energy for health, happiness, and well-being.
The Star of Light Philosophy and Your Health
For those who suffer illness, aside from unavoidable genetic issues or accidents—many people could remain healthy for much longer if they followed some of the principles of the Star of Light philosophy. That begins with listening to your soul and recognizing that your spirit is closely connected to how you live, what you eat, and how you treat your body.
If you are willing to take care of yourself, life truly becomes a blessing.
Your Health Is Your Responsibility
I admit that it becomes more challenging as we grow older. Aches and pains appear, and the stress of modern life often leads to high blood pressure and other health problems. But ultimately, no one else is responsible for your well-being. It is up to each of us to make the right choices.
Some of those choices include meditation, proper breathing, prayer, daily rituals, and caring for your mental, emotional, and physical health. Many of these ideas are described in the Love and Peace Scriptures. If you are interested, you can review them in Books 1 and 2, which are available for free at thestaroflight.com.
Create Your Life Plan Before It Is Too Late
Before it is too late, take the time to create a life plan. We often use a system called V-MAP, which is connected to the idea of 11:11 and helps people create a vision for their lives. It encourages you to think about your purpose, your work, and your health. You have to decide how you want to live—both now and in the future.
We live in a complicated world, with conflict and uncertainty everywhere. Without thoughtful planning, it can be difficult to live a balanced and fulfilling life. That is why it is so important to pause, reflect, and decide what truly matters before time passes you by.
