"Learning from our Elders" Article by Steve Marsten

I had a great conversation with a retiree recently. He had had a very hard life and he was inspiring for he was still thriving in life. He made me think - for most of us, life offers abundant opportunities for both laughter and tears. The good times we savour. The hard times often go to our heart and deep into our soul. We measure our ability to handle life’s challenges through our strength of character. And yet, where do we learn how to deal with those challenges, those hard times and difficulties? In school, we are taught how to read, add and write.

But what about the keys to living?  Where do we do our bachelor degree in Life? Where are the classes dealing with the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, the failure of a relationship? Unfortunately, those lessons are mostly learned through trial by fire and the school of hard knocks. The message I took from talking to this multi experienced gentleman was that no matter how difficult your life may become, no matter how hard it gets, there is always reason to keep on going and fighting back because you can survive and thrive. Only selfish people would think otherwise.

 

He had lost his parents to a tragic accident; a daughter to illness; had a broken marriage; and lost several well paying jobs to various economic set backs not of his making. Believing that his life has value is important.

 

He believes that we have to live life with a sense of urgency so not a minute is wasted. Failure, defeat and loss afflict us all. Expect it, and learn to deal with it. And then learn to get back to life without waiting for an invitation. One way to do that is to trust in the power within yourself, and to believe good things are going to follow—great things will occur when you get up, dust yourself off, and go at life with renewed determination and courage. He remarried at 55 and at 70 continues to work for charities 3 days a week and he thoroughly enjoys life to the max.

 

What are some lessons you have learnt from an Elder?

What do you think the keys are to living?

Do you need help with some of life’s hurdles?

 

At Sothertons we support you in [Business] + [Life]. If you need assistance with planning your future or tackling some financial hurdles please contact us on 4972 1300.