something old, something new

A few days ago, I showed up early for an interview appointment. Many had applied and others were already waiting. I caught myself sizing up my competition. Then I caught myself repressing a laugh at the realization that I was a used car in a new car lot. They've got GPS built into the dash; I have a Thomas Guide. They've got ipod jacks; I have a tape deck. They've got the coveted new car smell; I have a cardboard pine hanging from the rear view mirror. They've got youth and energy; I have... experience. I felt a momentary dip in confidence. After all, newer is better, right?

Whatever I felt when I entered the interview room, I felt quite the opposite when I exited. I had gone through a nearly identical interview exam over five years ago, and I must say, this old fart kicked that newbie's ass. I haven't any sense that I outperformed my competition or that I would advance to the next round. But I did sense that as between my present and my younger self, the intervening years had brought more than just wear and tear. The years had brought ease and confidence and other upgrades that I value, no matter what they might fetch in the market.