After many years of enjoying Antiques Roadshow on public television, my husband and I had a chance to attend the event in nearby Rapid City. Since we lost our antiques in the Alabaugh Fire, we had little to bring, but we dug up a few interesting items. My husband, more than myself, is a dedicated viewer of the show, and was pleased to obtain tickets.
After a few hours of standing in line, he seemed less impressed, but we both admired the organization and volunteers that made the whole event more enjoyable.
It was interesting to talk to others in line, some curious, others eager to find they had a hidden gem among their possessions. There was a comradery among people who treasured items that often had a history of their own in being passed down from generation to generation. History seemed to come alive among the items that were rolled or carried in to be evaluated by the experts.
Many were disappointed at a value that was lower than their expectations. I wondered how many would still treasure the item after receiving the news that their special piece was not as special to the judges.
It was reassuring in some strange way to realize that getting older can make something, or, perhaps, someone, increase in value. It is the unique antiques that go up in value. That is a reminder to me that getting older can be valuable. We older folks do have years of living, and, hopefully, accrued wisdom and perspective to offer those who follow us. Keeping my mind open to change while holding on to the depth of the past, can be tricky, and, at times, frustrating, but for me the fluidity of ideas and the sorting through them is what keeps me young and growing.
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