A woman who is one of the most amazing of all, is 99 years old. I am lucky enough to spend time with her and hear of her life. The 1930's, 40's, 50's...she can tell you things you wouldn't believe with a gleam in her eye and a smile through her memories. She's as sharp as a tack.
Yesterday, I asked her what the secret to living almost 100 years is. (She'll be 100 in a few months.)
Taking my hand, she rubbed the back of my arm. Looking right into my eyes, she leaned forward and said..."Hard work". (What?) That's not exactly what I expected. I was counting on her answer to be "Faith, love, happiness, friends and family..." Nope. She said..."Hard work."
A little taken back, I asked her to explain.
"Honey, I've worked hard my whole life. I grew up on a farm. I have never been afraid to do work and I believe that's the secret. The day you decide to stop moving or stop being active, is the day that it's all downhill from there."
I smiled and squeezed her hand. It's a good lesson learned I guess. You sure can't argue with the woman since she could probably take out half of the 80 year olds in the facility.
I got home last night and thought a little more about what she said. We try to raise the kids with all of the important things in life. It was a gentle reminder to me that not only faith, love, family and friends are what really matter. A good outlook on a solid work ethic, no matter what the job may be...might just be what the doctor ordered.