Passion doesn't retire.

Last week, I had the chance to see The Who at Fenway Park.

I’ll admit—I was a bit reluctant at first. At 80+ years old, Roger Daltrey and Pete Townshend are well past the thrashing, instrument-smashing days that made them legends. Did I really want to see them struggle through songs that defined an era? But then I reminded myself: this might be the last chance I’d ever get to see them live. So, I went. And I’m so glad I did.

From the very first notes, it was clear: while their bodies may have aged, their love of music—and their mastery of it—hasn’t faded one bit. Sure, Daltrey admitted his lungs aren’t what they used to be after attempting the harmonica solo ending of Baba O’Riley, and Townshend let his younger brother sing Going Mobile, admitting that he couldn't hit the high notes any more. But surrounded by an incredible band, they delivered a show that had me dancing (and air-drumming) the entire night.

It reminded me that when you love what you do, never stop doing it, because: 

1. It keeps you happy. Doing what you love lights you up inside. Even at 80, they were clearly having fun—and that joy radiated to everyone watching.

2. It keeps you young. Passion has a way of defying age. They may not leap across the stage anymore, but their energy, humor, and spark were ageless.

3. It brings joy to others. The crowd spanned generations, from boomers who saw them in their prime to kids discovering them for the first time. Their music still connects—and still matters.

4. It encourages evolution. They’ve adapted. Different arrangements, a fuller band, voices where they still shine best. Loving something enough to keep doing it means finding ways to evolve with it. 

5. It leaves a legacy. Every time they step on stage, they’re not just performing songs. They’re cementing memories—for themselves, for their fans, and for music history. That kind of impact lives on far beyond any one concert. 

Walking out of Fenway, I realized I hadn’t just seen a great show. I had seen proof that passion doesn't retire. And that’s not just true in music—it’s true in work and in life. Yes, our bodies age. Our abilities shift. But when you love something deeply—whether it’s music, teaching, building, writing, leading, or anything else —you find ways to keep doing it. Maybe differently. Maybe slower. But still with the same fire. 

That’s the power of passion. It doesn’t fade with time—it fuels it. It evolves. It adapts. And if you let it, it can inspire generations long after the spotlight dims.

As always, if this message resonates with you, feel free to share it with someone who might benefit from these insights. I’d also love to hear your thoughts here.