50th Reunion WEST HIGH School CLASS of 1966, Genesee Street, Rochester, NY (2026)

01/22/2025

Benji saying MY DADDY , my lap !!!!

01/22/2025

Miss Bella enjoying Daddies lab and lovin

11/01/2024

I recently asked a friend, now in his 70s and approaching 80, about the changes he’s noticed within himself. His response was thoughtful, and as he shared each insight, I could see the peace and wisdom in his eyes. Here’s what he told me:

1. “After years of loving my parents, my siblings, my spouse, my children, and my friends, I’ve come to understand the importance of loving myself, too.”
2. “I no longer feel like I have to carry the weight of the world. I’m not ‘Atlas,’ and I’ve learned that life will go on, even if I put down the load now and then.”
3. “I’ve stopped bargaining over small things with street vendors. Those few extra pennies mean little to me, but they might make a difference for them, perhaps even help send a child to school.”
4. “I leave a generous tip for my waitress. I know how hard she works, and I’m grateful. A little extra might bring her a moment of joy.”
5. “When an elderly person repeats a story, I no longer cut them off. Those stories are precious memories for them, and I find joy in watching them relive those moments.”
6. “I don’t feel the need to correct people anymore, even if I know they’re wrong. Peace, I’ve found, is far more valuable than being right.”
7. “I give compliments freely and often. A kind word can lift not only their spirits but mine as well. And when I receive a compliment, I accept it graciously, simply saying, ‘Thank you.’”
8. “I’ve learned not to fret over small imperfections like a wrinkle or spot on my shirt. It’s my personality that speaks the loudest, not my appearance.”
9. “I walk away from people who don’t value me. They may not recognize my worth, but I do, and that’s enough.”
10. “I don’t feel pressure to compete or keep up with others. I’m not a rat, and I’m certainly not in any race.”
11. “I’ve learned not to hide my emotions. They’re what make me human, and I welcome them.”
12. “I’ve realized that letting go of my ego is far more valuable than losing a cherished relationship. Ego creates distance; love brings closeness.”
13. “I live each day as if it’s my last. Because one day, it will be.”
14. “I choose happiness. I owe it to myself to do what brings me joy, because happiness is always a choice we can make.”

As he spoke, I felt a quiet power in his words, and I knew I had to share this with you. Why wait until we’re in our later years to learn these lessons? Why not start now, at any stage, at any age?