Recently, I asked my husband of near 40 years to share with me the five most important things he has learned about living. In bullet point, here’s what he shared:
‘Understand the basis for my approach to life was influenced by the idea that I did not want to work in an English factory, then after a prescribed number of years of service, go fishing. That would have been a very good life for me, a boy growing up in a World War II England...but I saw soldiers from around the world - particularly the United States - and I wanted to visit where they came from and to adventure the places I saw in movies. I’ve done that, and more. So, I have to say the five most important things I’ve learned about living are:
My future and present will always depend on me.
To improve my opportunities, I must get more understanding of how my circumstances are reflected from my learning - and my learning is not just academic.
Knowing, and respecting, that attitude which I grow and use is one of the most important criteria for my achievement and enjoyment of it.
Life is an experience with a beginning and an end, and I write the script for what happens in between.
The realization that when you cease to live, the ones left behind hurt the most; therefore, live to enjoy every day with them and for yourself.
Bernie added a bonus for me by sharing what he would like to have known sooner that would have gotten him farther, faster:)
“Failures are learning opportunities” - and -
“Sixth sense is a most powerful thing, and once you understand how and that it works, it makes life very exciting - as you have the support of your conscience.”
Thank you, Darling Bernie! It’s been wonderful to grow with you these forty years, and I look excitedly forward to many, many more together!