Life Lessons

By: OnTheCusp
     One of my role models was my Aunt Alice, who lived vigorously into her 90s.  Spending time with her was a breath of fresh air.  She wasn’t one to sit in a chair and watch the world go by.  She was a people person who took keen joy in those around her.  When she passed away all too young at the age of 92, I reflected on all that she taught me.  In the mad rush of everyday living, these are lessons to take to heart.      
1. Dig in the dirt.  It’s good for the body and for the soul.  There’s nothing like warm sunshine on your back as you bring beauty to life.
2.  Attitude does matter.  Laugh often.  Laugh lines are the best kind of beauty marks.  Joy is a magnet that draws others to you.   And the more you laugh, the better you will feel.
3.  Go for a long walk, often.  It’s the best kind of meditation and will nourish the body and soul.
4.  Surround yourself with friends of all ages.  Children in particular, will expand your mind and keep you young.
5.   It’s okay to reminisce but it’s even better to live life fully in the present.   Stay actively interested in what is going on around you – it will create some wonderful new memories.
6.   Never pass up an opportunity for a new adventure.  Whether it’s taking a new class – like Tai Chi at age 88, or driving to another state with a carful of friends on the spur of the moment - a change of scenery will always do you good.
7.   Be good to your body, and it will return the favor.  Good health is a life-long project, not a fad to start and stop at whim.
8.   Make your own entertainment.  Go to lunch with friends.  Stay up late to play a board game.  Read a good book. Turn off the TV and talk.  Good conversation and shared fun will nourish your soul longer than the canned laughter of a sitcom.
9.  Be a cheerleader.  Whether it’s rooting for the local team or for a child’s first swim meet, vocally supporting those you believe in is good for you – and for them.
10. It really is okay to put an ice cube in your glass of red wine.  Give yourself permission to enjoy the things in life that make you happy, even if they are slightly unconventional.

OnTheCusp is a reluctant workaholic and Boston-based mother of two teenagers, whose dream is a daily walk on the beach to savor the sunrise.   


These sound like great fun and advice!  It is wonderful to have such great memories of a loved one!
Queue Murphy