In a world where people often use age as an excuse - "I'm too old for this," "I'm already 60 years old," or "At my age, it's too late to start" - it’s easy to fall into the trap of limiting yourself.
Think about it. How many times have you heard (or even said) things like, “I need to get married by this age,” or “I should have kids before I’m 40…,” or “I’m too old to start something new now”For many, life seems to come with an invisible checklist tied to arbitrary age milestones. And yet, isn’t it fascinating that in Japan, there’s even a notion among some high school girls that life is “over” once they graduate? 💦💦💦
Today, I want to introduce you to someone who shatters these misconceptions - a living testament to the fact that age is truly just a number. Meet Barry, an 80-year-old professor from Saipan who embodies the spirit of continuous growth and learning.
Meet Barry, the Super Grandfather
Barry, at 80, is a history professor at a university in Saipan. He discovered our gym during a summer break visit to Chiang Mai and joined our Muay Thai classes several times a week.
From his chiseled physique - honed through daily swimming and strength training - you’d never guess his age. Barry’s athletic repertoire doesn’t stop at Muay Thai. He’s practiced karate and iaido in Japan and trains at an MMA gym back home. His punches pack a power that defies his years, driven by technique and determination.
But it’s not just his physical prowess that amazes us. Barry’s mental sharpness and unyielding desire to improve leave everyone inspired. Each session, he’d approach us with specific goals: “I want to practice my hooks today - they’re not quite right,” or “How can I improve the speed of my one-two combination?” Watching his eyes light up like a boy’s when he nailed a new skill was nothing short of magical. “Thank you! I’ve improved a little more today!” he’d say, his face beaming with joy.
“Every Second is Precious”
Barry once shared his philosophy with me:
"I don’t have much time left, you know? So every single second is precious and valuable. I won’t waste a single moment."
Hearing those words, I couldn’t help but wonder: if I reach 80, will I still have Barry’s zest for life? His insatiable hunger for growth? Barry isn’t just living his life - he’s inspiring others.
"I want to tell my students and young people to never give up, to keep moving forward, and to persist in their efforts. And I aspire to be a role model, showing them that even at the age of 80, it is possible."
Timeless Wisdom from Issai Sato
Barry’s words reminded me of a famous quote by Issai Sato, a Japanese philosopher who influenced some of Japan’s greatest historical figures, including Saigo Takamori and Sakamoto Ryoma:
"If you study in your youth, you will achieve great things in your prime. If you continue to study in your prime, you will not weaken in old age. And if you keep learning even in old age, your spirit will live on even after your body has perished."
In life, we are all racing against time. The inevitability of death looms over each of us. But what gives life meaning? Is it not the constant pursuit of growth, the humility to keep learning, and the strength to use our knowledge and experience to contribute to others? Barry embodies this philosophy perfectly.
Personal Reflection
I’m reminded of my own parents, who, at the age of 68, decided to enroll in a university in the United States. At the time, I couldn’t help but question, “What could they possibly study at that age?” But now, I am in awe of their unrelenting curiosity and drive. My mother, now a vibrant 86, often tells me, “Knowledge and experience are never burdens - they are treasures.”
Indeed, it is not age but the cessation of learning that marks the true decline of a person. Whether you’re young or old, the moment you stop striving to learn and grow, you begin to stagnate. On the other hand, as long as you keep learning, you remain alive, vibrant, and full of potential.
Embrace Life, Ditch the Excuses
Barry, our incredible “Super Grandfather,” proves that age is merely a number. With his playful spirit, boundless energy, and inspiring presence, he reminds us all that life’s possibilities are endless.
To him, we’re all just babies with a whole world of opportunities ahead. So why let something as arbitrary as age hold us back?
Today, let’s say goodbye to using age as an excuse. Let’s live in the present, seize every moment, and savor life to the fullest.
We’re waiting for you at The Camp - where age is nothing but a number, and your journey of growth and discovery never ends.
