As I turn 62 years old, I’ve started to look at my life, my relationships, and my future in a new light. I’ve been lucky enough to enjoy the past sixty-two summers on this planet, and would like to think that I have gathered some wisdom from my life experiences. Here are some ideas that bounce in my mind on a daily basis. Some I practice, some I am still working on. Such is life. Always a work in progress.
- Embrace Change: Life is full of changes, and embracing them with an open mind and positive attitude is essential. Knowing how and when to adapt is a valuable trait that helps you navigate through the ups and downs of life. Yet, in the same regard, never give up on what you believe and who you really are.
- Cherish Relationships: Losing my dad when I was 34 taught me that nothing is guaranteed. And life isn’t always fair. Relationships are the foundation of a full life. Embrace your connections with family, friends, and loved ones. Make time for meaningful conversations, and be there for them in times of need. Don’t waste your time on people that don’t respect you for being you. You are not the problem, let them deal with their own issues. Be thankful for the friends that have entered your orbit for whatever reason. Be true to them, and your life will be full.
- Communication is Key: Open and honest communication is important to any healthy relationship. Express your feelings, thoughts, and concerns with kindness and empathy. Active listening is equally important. One of my goals is to sit more often with friends and family and just reminisce and laugh over a cold PBR.
- Learn from Mistakes: Mistakes are inevitable, but they can be powerful teachers. Don’t be afraid to make them, but always strive to learn from them and grow as a person. Those that haven’t made mistakes, haven’t lived.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Make time for activities that bring you joy, and don’t neglect self-reflection and self-improvement. It’s ok to have lunch by yourself, to watch a ballgame with no one else, listen to your favorite music without anyone around. Appreciate the ‘you’ that has been put on this planet.
- Embrace Gratitude: Create a sense of gratitude for all the good things in your life. Gratitude can help you maintain a positive outlook and appreciate the small joys that come your way. Enjoy tonight’s sunset, the next double rainbow, or the simplicity of a child’s laughter. Those are the gifts that are presented to us each and every day.
- Pursue Passions: Never let your age dictate what you can and can’t do. Continue to set new goals and chase your passions, no matter your age. Life is about constant growth and pursuing what brings you happiness and fulfillment. Never let anyone tell you your thoughts, dreams, or aspirations are silly or wrong. You’re not living for those people; you’re living for yourself.
- Live in the Present: While it’s important to plan for the future, don’t forget to savor the present moment. Life is happening right now, so make the most of it. Embrace those that want to spend their time with you. Those people will bring you the smiles that you deserve.
- Forgive and Let Go: Holding onto grudges and past hurts only weighs you down. Practice forgiveness, not only towards others but also towards yourself. I have not lived a perfect life, but I’ve always looked forward from a mistake and tried to create a better version of me. Realizing that we are all learning everyday can hopefully fill you with compassion and understanding towards the mistakes of others. Letting go of past hurts and mistakes can bring a sense of liberation and peace.
- Stay Curious: Embrace a curious mindset throughout life. There’s always something new to learn, experience, and explore. Stay open to new ideas and perspectives. I love listening and asking questions. None of us know everything, but man, I sure want to absorb all I can.
- Be Kind and Compassionate: Treat others with kindness and compassion. You never know what battles they might be fighting, and your actions can make a significant difference in their lives. We all have good and bad days; understanding that can help immensely. As the Golden rule states; ‘Treat others the way you’d want to be treated.’
- Create Memories: Life is a collection of memories. Take time to create special moments with the people you care about, and care about you. These memories will be the ones you cherish for a lifetime. From a simple s’more by a campfire, to a five year old’s birthday; or a simple hug in a time of need, to a smile of encouragement from across a crowded room, let each moment fall into your file of fond memories. Let your moments move you to uncontrollable smiles and tears of joy.
- Age is Just a Number: Don’t let age define you. Embrace all new experiences. Never stop dreaming and striving for more regardless of your age. A friend told me when I turned forty to be sure to stretch each morning as often as possible. Taking care of the body that keeps you ticking is important. Though I know I may not be able to keep up with those younger than me, I know I can modify what I am capable of and always give my 110%.
- Leave a Legacy of Love: When my days are done, people won’t remember my possessions or achievements as much as they’ll remember the love and kindness I was allowed to share with them. To this day I remember sitting on my Rochester, NY porch step with my dad and counting the cars go by until my mom got home from shopping. I still fondly reminisce on my mom’s laugh and infectious sense of humor. And not many days go by in a week, when I don’t smile at the memories created on the golf course with my friend Harry.
- Embrace the Unknown: Our future is uncertain, but that’s what makes it exciting. Embrace the unknown with a sense of adventure and be open to the opportunities it brings. Be thankful of each waking day and the endless possibilities that each day contains.
Our lives are a journey, and there is a simplicity and beauty that lies in our everyday experiences. With our acceptance of those moments we gather fond memories and long-lasting friendships along the way.
Peace & Love, Ed
As I See It 