Monday, August 07, 2006

Life Lessons I Learned From Aunt Ruth

Here are a few life lessons I learned from my 90-year-old Aunt Ruth on our trip to Alaska together this past June. (Read my journals from the trip here, here, and here.)


(click image for larger view)

  1. Know and accept your limitations, but don’t let them stop you from doing things. Find ways to work around them.
  2. Read your Bible every day and go to church on Sundays.
  3. Always love and be loyal to your family.
  4. Don’t be afraid of voicing your opinion.
  5. Take naps every day.
  6. Rest when you’re tired.
  7. Eat when you’re hungry.
  8. Take the initiative to get in touch with loved ones.
  9. Stay interested in current affairs.
  10. Love your country.
  11. Never stop giving of yourself – be generous with your time, your money, and your talents.
  12. Manage your money wisely. Be generous to others, set some aside for saving, cover your expenses, and use it to enjoy yourself.
  13. Stay interested in the people and the world around you.
  14. Make friends wherever you go.
  15. Take initiative to meet others.
  16. Practice hospitality and enjoy the hospitality of others.
  17. Never stop exploring.
  18. Take delight in new experiences.
  19. Do what you enjoy and enjoy what you do.
  20. Take interest in the hopes and dreams of others.
  21. Remember the past with fondness, live today to the fullest, and look forward to the future with eager anticipation.
  22. Always keep a good sense of humor.
  23. Take life as it comes to you.
  24. Never stop learning.
  25. Take your vitamins.
  26. Always set goals for yourself so you have something to look forward to in the future.
  27. Eat a little peanut butter every day.


(click images for larger view)

At age 90, Aunt Ruth is still going strong and finding joy in every day! May I be blessed enough to do the same!

I will try to get my best pictures from the trip organized and posted online after prelims. Aunt Ruth has already invited all her friends over to her place to see them when I go up to Kansas City next Easter.

Here's a small taste of what's to come:


(click image for larger view)

P.S. -- Alaska was Aunt Ruth's 49th and my 45th state. We'll have to see who gets to #50 first!

No comments: