In three months I will be 90 years old. Getting here doesn’t seem like much of an achievement, but people seem to make a lot of it. Looking back over these years to See what I may have done that could have given me these extra days. Then yes, I am little less enthusiastic, but there are some things I feel I must do yet end that gives me the energy and motivation to keep on.
So what was my goal? What kind of track was I wanting to leave behind when I do move on? I wanted to leave one or two great big ones that would shine in the dark. as guides for others for many years up the road. I’m sorry to say, I didn’t get there yet But I am still to do something that I’m still not sure about.
I would not have gotten this far, had it not been for the six things that follow that I’ve tried to do.
I haven’t done these things to live longer, I just never thought that much about it. I went about my life so far doing things I had to do; things I had to build, create.
Six Simple Keys to a Longer, Happier Life
A Heartfelt Invitation to Live Well, With Joy and Meaning
As we journey through life, we gather more than just years—we gather wisdom, laughter, love, and memories. And yet, no matter how far we’ve come, there’s always more joy to be found, more light to live in. These six simple keys aren’t rules—they’re gentle reminders. You don’t have to do them perfectly. Just try them kindly, in your own way, at your own pace.
- Stay curious.
Curiosity isn’t something we outgrow—it’s something that keeps us growing.
Ask questions. Learn something new. Read, explore, wonder. Curiosity keeps the mind sharp and the heart wide open.
Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, learning a piece of history, or simply noticing the little things more closely—curiosity connects us to the world in the most beautiful ways.
- Move your body.
Movement doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful.
A gentle walk. A few stretches before bed. A light dance in the kitchen. Motion reminds your body it’s still alive and appreciated.
When you move, even just a little, your body moves with you—not against you. It rewards you with strength, balance, and clarity. Every step is a message that you’re still choosing life.
- Stay connected.
Friends, neighbors, old companions—don’t let those ties unravel.
Call someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Write a letter. Have coffee with someone who knew you “back then.”
Human connection is like sunlight—it warms everything it touches. Even the smallest moment of real conversation can nourish your spirit for days.
- Eat what loves you back.
Food is more than fuel—it’s a form of self-love.
Choose what makes your body feel good and your heart feel proud. Fresh, wholesome, colorful foods lift you from the inside out.
You know your body. You know what energizes you. Listen to it. Care for it. And enjoy every bite that feels like a gift—not a compromise.
- Be kind, help others
Kindness is quiet strength.
A smile. A thank you. A small favor. Kindness makes the world softer—and makes you feel better too.
Everyone is carrying something. Every soul is healing from something. When you choose to be gentle with others, you’re choosing to leave a mark that matters.
- Have a purpose. (The golden one.)
This is the heart of it all.
Have a reason to wake up. Something that gives your days shape and meaning. A project, a goal, a legacy to create.
Your purpose doesn’t need to be grand—it only needs to be yours. Maybe it’s finally writing your story. Maybe it’s teaching someone what you know. Maybe it’s just planting flowers you’ll never see bloom.
Whatever it is—do it with love.
Because when you live with purpose, you live fully.