11/10/2024
Just wow
I recently asked a dear friend, who is in his 70s and nearing 80, about the changes he’s noticed in himself as he’s grown older. His response was so beautiful, I just had to share it with you all:
1. After spending a lifetime loving my parents, siblings, spouse, children, and friends—I’ve finally started loving myself.
2. I’ve realized that I am not “Atlas.” The world doesn’t rest on my shoulders.
3. I no longer haggle with vegetable or fruit vendors. A few extra pennies won’t hurt me, but it might help them save for their daughter’s school fees.
4. I always leave my waitress a generous tip. That little extra might bring a smile to her face as she works hard for her living.
5. I’ve stopped telling the elderly that they’ve already repeated that story. It allows them to relive their precious memories.
6. I no longer feel the need to correct people, even when I know they’re wrong. It’s not my job to make everyone perfect—peace is far more valuable than perfection.
7. I freely give compliments. They lift the mood of both the giver and receiver. And remember, if you receive one, never turn it down—just say "Thank you."
8. A crease or spot on my shirt? I don’t sweat it anymore. Personality speaks louder than appearances.
9. I’ve learned to walk away from people who don’t value me. They may not know my worth, but I do.
10. I stay calm when others try to outrun me in life’s rat race. I am not a rat, and I’m not racing.
11. I’m no longer embarrassed by my emotions—they’re what make me human.
12. I’ve learned that it’s better to drop the ego than to break a relationship. Ego isolates, but relationships keep you connected.
13. I live each day as if it could be my last, because one day, it just might be.
14. And lastly, I’m doing what makes me happy. I’m responsible for my happiness, and happiness is a choice you can make at any moment.
Why wait until we’re 60, 70, or 80 to start living this way? Let’s practice these lessons now, at any age. 🌿
This insightful message was shared by a wise friend, and I’m simply passing along his words of wisdom.
