J Krishnamurti on Aging: View Point and Inspired Poem

J Krishnamurti on Aging: View Point and Inspired Poem

VIEW POINT

Renowned philosopher and writer, J. Krishnamurti, perceived aging not just as a physical phenomenon but as a psychological deterioration stemming from accumulation, memory, habits, and conflict. He stressed the importance of keeping the mind 'young and innocent' by letting go of the past each day, liberating it from the weights of sorrow, ego, and self-absorption to attain timeless awareness.

He believed that while the body inevitably deteriorates, the mind ages due to internal strife, struggle, and resistance to 'what is.' In his view, a 'young' mind is one that is fresh and untainted by yesterday's memories, able to engage with life directly without the distortion of past experiences.

Krishnamurti asserted that a fresh, innocent mind—free from worldly and verbose knowledge or the constraints of time—is essential for grasping truth, which is not reliant on age. A mind that is preoccupied with its own activities, decisions, and psychological security is considered a 'dead mind', even if it resides in a youthful body. True life is not defined by chronological age, but by the absence of the self-centered 'me'—a condition of being liberated from psychological conflict.

INSPIRED POEM

The years go by, like leaves in fall,

But life can still be bright and new.

Keep body strong, give mind its call,

A happy path awaits for you.

Let moving be a joyful game,

And friends be close, a helping hand.

Let spirit fly, a burning flame,

Find purpose in this promised land.

It's not just fighting aches and pain,

But living well, with strength and care.

Choose your own road, again, again,

And hold the things you love so rare.

Know yourself well, and grow each day,

Embrace the journey on its way.

Live with purpose that's full of grace,

Do those things that hold a special place.