Why I Love Being an Old Soul by Elizabeth DeGasperis

          "I was born in the wrong generation. I do not belong in the 21st century." is something I frequently say. Yes, I admit it is a typical phrase to utter, but it is a phrase I try my hardest to live by. I can live without a smartphone and television, I collect cassette tapes/players, and I was always viewed as the oddball who could better connect with people old enough to be my grandparents than others my own age. I suppose this facet of my personality was shaped by my upbringing. I was raised free of most modern technology for entertainment purposes (i.e. a cell phone, an mp3 player, etc.) and what I was allowed to use, I chose not to. I was the type of child who would never sit still. Whether I was doing gymnastics, hanging on my mother's kitchen cabinets, or aimlessly running throughout my home, I had to be in constant motion. This allowed me to find ways of entertaining myself as opposed to glueing my eyes to a television set or a computer for hours. Growing up in such a way opened me up to my surroundings.

          As a child, I remember the sentimental sounds of Jimmy Buffett and Alan Jackson. Hearing their songs transports me to my backyard splashing around in my pool. These artists I hold a special place in my heart for, but my taste extends slightly further. In addition to them, I listen to Fleetwood Mac, Heart, Eagles, Queen, the Beatles, Chicago, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, Def Leppard, and numerous others. Knowledge of these bands allows for fascinating discussions with older ones lucky enough to have seen them in concert.
          The most sentimental are the childhood stories I hear. My mother grew up in two 1970s Hardyston lake communities. She often tells me how life was simpler back in the day. Everyone within knew of each other. Many would gather on Saturdays to watch lakeside movies. Children would often be seen riding their bikes on each surrounding street and swim in the lake after their chores were completed. With every story she tells me, I find my yearning to travel back increase. Perhaps this is a way of strengthening our mother-daughter bond.

          All in all, I love being an old soul because I love being able to experience a spiritual connection with someone years ahead. This allows me to evaluate my life and the choices I have made based on their stories and experiences.