The Boston Globe‘s Web site currently features a nice story about a Needham, Mass., woman, Freyda Siegel, who recently turned 100. (Her best quote: “I think this has been a good century for me.”) The article includes a sidebar listing Siegel’s 18 tips for living a long life well:
Live in the present, not the past.
Enjoy personal relationships.
Respect every individual regardless of age, status, education, ability, or political affiliation.
Stimulate your mind (reading, games, politics, sports).
Help other people.
Eat well.
Splurge once in a while.
Exercise and get fresh air.
Avoid perfectionism.
Find the positive in situations.
Don’t waste energy on things you can’t change.
Avoid bearing grudges.
Kvetch not.
Be a good listener.
Beware of giving unsolicited advice.
Think creatively.
Remain curious.
Have fun!
I think it’s safe to assume there aren’t any centenarians reading my blog, but I’ll still pose this question to you youngsters who do: Are there any tips you would add to Siegel’s list?
I’ll start the Bread Line additions with this: Professionally, do something you enjoy.
August 21, 2009 at 8:01 pm
Smile.
August 21, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Laugh out loud every day
Learn to breathe deeply and mindfully
Unplug
Hug a person or a tree every chance you get
Smile
August 21, 2009 at 10:06 pm
I’m glad I checked this . . . I need to post Freyda’s advice on my refrigerator! I would add: Make Love Like You Mean It!
P.S. How does one pronounce your last name? I will look on your “About the Author” — maybe it’s there, phonetically.
August 21, 2009 at 10:15 pm
Since there was no Caption This in my day I will toss a quick addition to the sharp centenarian’s list (with exception to her third item, waaaaay too pollyanna for me! Ha!)
In the immortal lyrics, by Hal David, in a terrific Burt Bacharach song, “Without true love we just exist.” Yep, add that to the list!
August 21, 2009 at 11:00 pm
Here’s one more:
Go ahead and be a Pollyanna as much as you can, she was happy
And, she probably believed in True Love
August 21, 2009 at 11:30 pm
Carey,
My last name is pronounced Wiz-zork-uh-wits.
Keep the great list additions coming, everyone!
August 21, 2009 at 11:56 pm
Sounds like ‘Wizard-of-Wits’
August 22, 2009 at 12:09 am
OK, to keep the list moving I will add one in both Judy’s and my name here (adding Judy’s name falls under poetic license and vacation prerogative) —-
Wine!
It actually doesn’t matter what list you talk about, WINE should always be included!
August 23, 2009 at 12:35 am
Wine, how could I forget the wine?? Another in Judy’s honor and from my heart as well:
If you are able, adopt a homeless pet and experience that indescribable bond.
August 27, 2009 at 11:54 am
I’m SOOOO late getting here! I got back from vacation and I had to ummm… “help other people.” I’m just getting back to my favorite blogs. Better late than never.
Love this post, and the list, and Craig for inviting everyone, and everyone for coming. Oh, and Bobby and Carey – Yay! You both know me so well!
Cheers!