My dear Scipio and Laelius. Men, of course, who have no resources in themselves for securing a good and happy life find every age burdensome. But those who look for all happiness from within can never think anything bad which Nature makes inevitable.

Life has its share of joys and laughter__ut we also know life__ road is often very rough. Temptations assail us; people disappoint us; illness and age weaken us; tragedies and sorrows ambush us; evil and injustice overpower us. Life is hard__ut God is good, and heaven is real!

God wants us to work (whether at home or on the job), but that doesn__ mean it__ wrong to retire. The Levites (who assisted in Israel__ worship) were required to retire at fifty.

Life can grow sweeter and more rewarding as we grow older if we possess the presence of Christ. Sunsets are always glorious. It is Christ who adds colors, glory, and beauty to man__ sunsets.

Old age has its compensations. More than ever I see each day as a gift from God. It is also a time to reflect back on God__ goodness over the years and an opportunity to assure others that God truly is faithful to His promises.

Ask [God] to help you reflect Christ as you grow older, instead of turning sour or grumpy.