Old(er) achiever

Young achievers always get much applause

Precocity is always seen positively because

Those who achieve great things early seem destined

To have a great life ahead, their stars must be well aligned..

Children are encouraged to learn from and emulate

The youngsters whose achievements the society celebrates…

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It is good to shine early in life, obviously

But as we see steady increases in life expectancy

There are people trying new skills at their lives’ later stages

Excelling at activities considered suitable for younger ages

Recently discovered confidence they often exude

“Age is just a number” is both their mantra and attitude

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The older achievers likely have had more barriers to break

To get to their goals, may have had their reputations at stake

They are more likely to have had to face

Frank opposition, sarcasm, or ridicule in their place

Their achievements can be sources of inspiration

For those who feel they have lost motivation..

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As I pen these lines, my middle aged self would

Like to achieve something that my younger self wanted but never could…