Being Old

I used to wonder what it would be like to be old. No more. I got it. Clear. Certain. Sure.

But I wish others wouldn’t savage the “older folks” regardless of their age. Take for example one of the greatest quarterbacks of my lifetime.

He was the oldest quarterback to ever start a Super Bowl, and played like it. Peyton Manning, 39, threw for just 141 yards in Super Bowl 50; many of his balls wobbled, like ducks. He tossed no touchdown passes, threw an interception and turned the ball over on a fumble. (TIME)

We could mention that his team won – putting away the guys everyone (almost) thought would run away with the game. Was the defense outstanding- absolutely! Seems like I remember a lot of football people saying: DEFENSE is the name of the game!!!

As far as I can see, he didn’t play any worse than Cam Newton. The difference is not so much the age as it is the person. Peyton didn’t strut around the stadium in gold MVP shoes and a superman shirt. When it was over, Peyton Manning was humble, making sure the other players were lauded for their efforts. I never saw Cam. Maybe he was interviewed – and I have no idea what he said or will say. I would wager, however, he won’t be quite so gracious. Is that unfair? I’m sorry. I hope to be wrong.

Humility. That’s the word. That is a characteristic that is most like the Master, Jesus. Creator, Ruler, King, Lord, High Priest, and Savior. See Him on his knees washing the feet of men who were arguing about who would be greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Don’t hear me wrong. I don’t know Peyton Manning. I don’t know his character or his actions or his  proclivities. I do know he is playing long after most have “thrown in the towel.”

YEA!!!! For the old guy.