Live like you're running out of time

On a picture perfect birthday date night in Bend Oregon, a few months ago, Mrs Blackwell asked her 58 year old husband what advice he would offer his younger, and slightly less hairy self should the universe permit such an indulgence. Expecting an answer lasting roughly 45 seconds or so, she paused him briefly after 10 minutes to order another two martinis, both for her, to ensure she 'didn't get thirsty'.

Mr Blackwell brought his inner theatrics to the answer, vividly portraying both his 18 and 58 year old selves, sitting around a campfire in conversation, sipping dry ciders from their enamel mugs, and somehow, Barry Saunders was also there, picking out a tune on his guitar while the insects chirped and a full moon illuminated the scene.

"First up, love like you're running out of time," prioritised the senior Mr Blackwell. "The universe connected Millie and I just when it needed to, and she overflows my joy allowance every day. Never take your love for granted and invest in making him or her as happy as you can, always. It's an investment that gives you the very best return you could ever wish for."

"Second, eat like you're running out of time. Now I know you, junior Adam, would interpret that as a quantity mission, but you'll come to realise it means treating your biologically natural body with biologically natural food in small quantities, because - surprise - that's what it was designed for. Breaking food rules results in a broken body. Treat it well, drink lightly and exercise frequently, son."

"I'm not your son, I'm you."

"Third, travel like you're running out of time. That doesn't just mean internationally or to exotic locations. It simply means getting out and learning how the rest of the world works beyond your home town. That will help you understand people, it will open up your creative perspective and you'll come home filled with optimism, energy and a huge sense of possibility. It'll shape you and make you a better, more thoughtful person. And here's a hot tip, if you can't travel, then read books like you're running out of time."

"Fourth, buy products like you're running out of time."

"Wait, what? You mean go shopping?"

"No, I mean choose only the best products you can afford and buy very little. One day, someone will have to get rid of all that stuff you might buy and it won't have made you any happier. It will just sit in your house or garage gathering dust. You and your life will be richer by spending your money on travel. Trust me."

"And lastly, use your time like you're running out of time. Grow vegetables. Walk or ride your bike in nature. Read real books instead of spending hours scrolling inflammatory opinions and click bait news stories and getting worked up over it. Write your own book and chase your dreams. And treat people well, even if you don't agree with them; that's how the world becomes a better place for everyone."

The younger Mr Blackwell sipped his cider and paused thoughtfully. Finally he looked up. "You remind me of Master Yoda," he said quietly.

"I'm glad you could understand the experience and wisdom I could pass on," said the older one, placing his hand on the youth's shoulder.

"No, it's not that. You're kind of small, balding and very wrinkly," was the reply.