Leonardo DaVinci and Michelangelo (even at the age of 87) were said to have used the phrase “ancora imparo” often. The Italian phrase means “I am still learning.” When I think of such remarkable men, I consider myself in good company, as I too am still learning.
At the age of 34, I earned a bachelor’s degree. At 43, I sang at an open mic night for the first time (at the Bluebird Cafe). At 45, I learned how to ride a motorcycle, I became a certified Zumba instructor, and I began blogging. At 48, I ran my first 5K. I’ve learned lots of things before and since, but I am happy to say that the older I get, the more eager I am to learn new things.
I think when we quit learning, we begin stagnating and dying. And I find myself wondering, “What will I be learning when I am 87?”