Older people are often referred to as being in their sunset years. I’ve heard the term many times but somehow this now strikes me as a beautiful metaphor for the time of life I’m in. I don’t always think of myself as older, but I do fit the description!

Let’s talk for a few minutes about sunsets.

People admire sunsets. They gather to watch them and are inspired by their beauty. Poetry and prose strive to do them justice. Spoken words try to describe them. Photos and artwork attempt to capture their allure. Nothing compares with witnessing them for yourself.

Some sunsets are vibrant with colour. Others are muted. One I saw consisted entirely of wispy pink clouds. Each has its own unique beauty.

The scientific explanation for sunsets doesn’t interest me. It takes away from their magic. The one thing I do know is that you can’t have a beautiful sunset without clouds in the sky.

I love the thought of my life being compared to a sunset. Any storm clouds I’ve faced have served to add extra colour to the remaining light.

Lessons learned, wisdom gained, opportunities embraced are so much more than memories. They are a jumping off place for what is still to come. Each add their own hues to the sunset of my life.

Now, more than ever, it’s time to make my years count and pass on the wonder and beauty of life to those who may glance in my direction.