It’s hard to decide whether knowing that 70% of household dust is made up of discarded skin cells is encouraging or not. On one hand, it suggests that we are in a deteriorating condition. On the other, it hints at a renewal process that keeps us fresh.

We don’t have to look too hard to find evidence of deterioration. As we look at elderly friends and relatives (maybe even ourselves) we can see the symptoms of that process etched in faces, reflected in slower gaits, and demonstrated by sluggish mental processes. On it’s own, that’s discouraging. When we sweep under the bed we find hard evidence that we are literally not the persons we once were.

However, if we put a positive spin on it, we can focus on the rejuvenation aspect of the process. We are not our skin (or any other part of us). We merely live in these bodies which keep renewing themselves – replacing old cells with new ones in a rather marvellous way.

While our bodies renew themselves spontaneously, it takes effort to renew our non-material aspects. That has to be purposeful and deliberate on our part.

For Reflection:

• What are some things you could do to keep your thinking fresh, your emotions fresh and your will strong?
• Why is it important to renew your mind as you get older?