The passing of time brings the gift of perspective. Those who are lucky can go through life, guided by the wisdom of those who came before them. For Older Americans Month, our senior residents have shared more valuable insights on life – and we’re glad to be the lucky ones who get to hear them.
Read these 14 additional messages of wisdom and see what resonates with you:
What is the meaning of life? How has it changed from when you were younger?
I think I’m still figuring it out, just like I was as a young man. Finding meaning in life is a never ending process and your definition is constantly changing. Yet, I believe the most important part of life is how you live it and what you do with the time you’ve been given. You will be measured by the way you have treated others as well as the way you have treated yourself.
“It never came across my mind to think about the meaning of life. I was taught that whatever you think about the most, that’s what comes into your life. I know that this is true today.”
“Having parents who cared and a home. Friends and family, aunts and uncles who cared.”
“When I was younger, I was quite selfish (as we all are). I had lived a very sheltered and happy life. All I really cared about was riding horses and keeping ME happy. It wasn’t a bad life, but looking back now, I see that there was a huge piece missing. I found that missing piece as I began to look outside myself and help others.”
“I truly believe that we have no idea what the meaning of life is as children. Everything around us is so controlled and our world is so small. We can’t even begin to consider something as large as the meaning of life. As we become adults, I think our answer to that questions changes quite a bit. Now, being in my 90s, I’d say the most important thing you can do in life is just enjoy it. The best way to do this is to maintain your sense of humor. If I didn’t laugh everyday, I don’t think I would’ve made it this far”
How do you define a “good life” or a “successful life?”
“A ‘good life’ is being free of all negative thoughts, actions and reactions.”
“Being happy, family, friends and still have my own place able to help, thus if I can, love being with my family.”
“A good life is one where you learned the rules well, but also knew how to break them wisely.”
“The most important part of living life is finding peace. At the end of the day, we all have to be at peace with the decisions we have made and the life we chose to live. Do whatever you need to do to make this happen.”
“A good life is one in which you are happy with what you have. Jealousy is the thief of joy. If we spend all our time wishing we were something else, we’re going to waste our entire lives. Life is so short as it is, don’t waste a moment of it trying to be something you’re not.”
What are some favorite wise words to live by?
“One of the most difficult things to give away is kindness, but it is usually returned.”
“Worry less and work more. Ride less and walk more. Frown less and laugh more. Drink less and breathe more. Eat less and chew more. Preach less and practice more.”
“A wise man knows more than he tells. But a fool often tells more than he knows.”
“If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you.”
