There is a woman in our neighbourhood whose life has been a long and meaningful one. She is reputed for her funny sense of humor. She is kind and attuned. One day she came to join us and she poured out her life’s knowledge. She said that a perfect life isn’t a full life. It is a learning, a waiting, a loving and an accepting life. She admitted that things change a lot in life. People move in and out, plans change, and some dreams take longer than anticipated. She said forging against change only exhausts the heart.
Old Age Wise Words
The lady also narrated that being kind is one of the most important things in life. She is convinced that attitude is more important to remember than words. She said that it’s possible to make difficult moments easier with gentle behavior. She also found that being kind doesn’t mean that others can hurt you or for you to be disrespected. It’s perfectly possible to be kind and yet keep one’s peace. She said that she had a lot of patience through the many difficult years.
Sometimes answers were not readily given and problems were not suddenly solved. Some things take time, she said. She learned not to make all decisions when she was angry or afraid. When she was able to wait in a peaceful and quiet mind, she could know the correct path. She also shared that family and relationships are in need of care as well. It is not just love alone that is the answer. Time, respect and attention are also to be given to people. She said that when there is an important feeling that isn’t shared, silence can create distance.
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The woman explained that people would be lighter if they didn’t compare themselves to other people. She said that “comparison takes away happiness. Each of us has his own path, his own problems, his own blessings. She learned to be thankful for her own life. Gratitude made her see the good that did remain. She also spoke about health and rest. She was active for many years and put the needs of others before her own. As she grew older, she learned that her body and mind must also be cared for.
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She admitted that forgiveness was a difficult lesson to learn. To hold her pain for too long would make her feel heavy. She told us that peace is possible when a person leaves all the old hurts behind. Toward the end of her speech, the woman said that being older can be beautiful. She has developed an appreciation for the simple things and the integrity of honest individuals. Her words revealed that a nice life is established through patience, kindness, courage and peace.
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