94 Years of Wisdom

94 Years of Wisdom: A Lesson in Living Life Deliberately

For the past few weeks, I’ve been spending a lot of time with my 94-year-old grandmother who is currently in the hospital. As I’ve watched her interact with the hospital staff, her friends and family, and even complete strangers, I’ve been inspired by her wisdom and wit. In this essay, I’ll share some stories about my grandmother’s life, and how she has impacted mine, as well as the lessons I’ve learned from her about living deliberately.

A Life Full of Purpose

My grandmother, Barbara, or Auntie B as we grandchildren call her, has been a force to be reckoned with for nearly 94 years. Born to first-generation Newfoundlanders, she grew up in a small town in Massachusetts with a strong sense of community and a love for social justice. She was a preschool teacher for 22 years and has been involved in various community initiatives and volunteer work throughout her life.

The Power of Presence

During past visits to Massachusetts, I’d often find myself zoning out, checking my phone every few minutes, or planning my next move instead of being present in the moment. But this trip to the hospital was different. I stumbled upon the ancient Japanese concept of Ichi-go Ichi-e (one time, one meeting), which reminded me that every moment is unique and unrepeatable.

As I sat with my grandmother, I made a conscious effort to put my phone away and focus on her. I asked her about her childhood, her stories, and her life’s experiences. I listened as she shared tales of snatching out of the house as a teenager, summers spent living in a tent without running water or electricity, and her passion for quilting.

CommUNITY

The hospital becomes a revolving door of community, with friends and family members dropping by to spend time with my grandmother and share stories. Her generosity and kindness have brought her so much joy and made her a beloved figure in her community. Seeing all these people come together reminds me that community is one of the most essential pieces of living deliberately.

Thoreau’s Reflection: "I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived."

All We Have to Decide

My grandmother’s words, as much as Thoreau’s, remind me of what’s truly important: showing up, being present, and living deliberately. Our time is limited, but the choices we make define the life we lead.

Conclusion

My 94-year-old grandmother may not have all the years left, but the stories she’s shared with me, the lessons she’s taught, and the kindness she’s shown me make me realize that there are still so many precious moments to be savored, so many stories to share, and so many examples to follow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Ichi-go Ichi-e?
   • Ichi-go Ichi-e is an ancient Japanese concept that means "one time, one meeting". It reminds us to value each moment and cherish its uniqueness.
2. Who is Thoreau and what is his relevance here?
   • Thoreau was an American transcendentalist philosopher and philosopher who wrote about the importance of living simply and mindfully. His writings share a similar message to our grandmother’s story.
3. What is the value of community in living life deliberately?
   • Community is an essential part of living life deliberately. Surrounding ourselves with people who share our values and passions can provide meaningful connections and a sense of belonging.
4. Is it possible to start adopting these habits and perspectives mid-life?
   • Yes, it’s never too late to start practicing present-moment awareness and reflecting on what’s truly important. Our grandmother’s wisdom is a testament to this.

By embracing these valuable lessons, we can truly live life deliberately, cherished by the people we connect with and the stories that shape us.