Was in a retail store not long ago around Christmas time and when it came time for me to buy my items, the clerk asked, "Are you a senior citizen?"

 I am a senior but was somehow shocked by her question. I guess I wasn't ready for it because most of the time I don't feel like a senior citizen.

Anyway, I replied, "Yes I am and thank you for asking. That makes me feel better."

Then she said, "Well, there are a few good things being a senior and discounts are one."

"Yes, that's true. Discounts are nice."

Then she replied, "I guess maybe being a senior is 'just the cycle of life."

Simple but true and the honesty of it, flabbergasted me so I just smiled, picked up my packages and left.

But when you think about it, really give it thought, being a senior or being young is "just the cycle of life."

I had my time to be young and middle aged; now it's time for me to be a senior. Being a senior is not so bad. There are other discounts in life when one is a senior-and not just monetary discounts. Think about it. There are discounts in slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life-an ice cream cone, the holidays, achieving something special-like losing some weight, taking a nice walk, better health, appreciating one's family, enjoying a good meal, love from a friend or spouse, reading a good book or a quiet afternoon.

Think about other discounts you may have in your life. Write them down and then know in your heart how blest you are because of them.

So, the next time you're feeling down about being a senior, think of the many discounts in life and you'll soon find that sadness and depressing lifting high up into the sky. And remember where those discounts are coming from-they are coming from God and only God.

Remember, you're not getting older; you're just going through the cycle of life…