When I Grow Up to Be a Man” — Remembering Brian Wilson and Reflecting on the Passing of Time

Yesterday, Brian Wilson of The Beach Boys passed away at 82.

For those of us who grew up in the 1960s, the sounds of The Beach Boys weren’t just music—they were the soundtrack to a moment in time. Warm summer days, cruising in cars with the windows down, beach trips, and simpler times all wrapped in three-part harmonies and surf guitar. It’s a melancholy thing to lose someone whose voice and lyrics shaped your memories.

Over the years, we were lucky enough to see The Beach Boys live several times. Each show was a nostalgic ride through youth. One song Brian Wilson wrote always stood out to me: “When I Grow Up (To Be a Man).” It asked the quiet question so many of us carry deep down:

“Will I look back and say that I wish I hadn't done what I did?”

That kind of question gets louder with time.

Brian’s passing is another reminder that life doesn’t slow down. One moment you’re 16, full of questions, and the next you’re in your 60s or 70s, wondering where it all went. And while that might make us feel a little wistful, for us as Christians, it should also lead us to reflect more deeply on the kind of life we’re living—and where we’re headed.

What Does the Bible Say About Reflecting on Life?

Scripture doesn’t shy away from talking about the brevity of life. In fact, God invites us to think about our days—not to scare us, but to make us wise.

Psalm 90:12 says:

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”

That’s not just poetic language. It’s a wake-up call. Life is short, and we don’t get a second shot at today. Whether you're young and full of questions, or older and full of memories, now is the time to live with purpose.

James 4:14 puts it even more directly:

“You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.”

But the Bible doesn’t leave us in despair. Instead, it gives us direction:

• Live for what lasts.
  Matthew 6:19-20 reminds us to store up treasures in heaven, not on earth. Fame, wealth, even youthful good looks fade. But love, faith, and obedience to God? Those endure.

• Redeem the time.
  Ephesians 5:15-16 says, “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” Every day is a chance to make a difference for eternity.

• Live with the end in mind.
  Ecclesiastes 7:2 says, “It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of everyone; the living should take this to heart.” That’s a sobering thought—but it’s meant to make us look up, not just around.

A Final Chorus

Brian Wilson asked in that song, “Will I love my wife for the rest of my life?” and “Will I throw away my life?”

All of us ask some version of those questions. The truth is, we don't know how many years we get. But we do know we’re meant to live them in light of eternity.

Brian Wilson’s music brought joy to millions. His life—like ours—was a mix of beauty and brokenness, highs and heartaches. As we remember him, let’s also remember what matters most: loving well, walking with God, and living with our hearts set on heaven.

“When I grow up to be a man…”
For the Christian, growing up means growing in faith, hope, and love—until the day we hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

If you are young and have never heard of the Beach Boys, here is a link.  Enjoy and let me know what you think.