Lessons from Mom
My mom is just over twice my age, which means she has a lot more practical wisdom than I do. Over the years I’ve been lucky enough to pick up on some things. Surely she’s taught me all that I know, but not all that she knows.
- Reese Ruland
Don’t forget to sing in the lifeboats. If things aren’t going well, make the most of it.
Choose happiness. My mom, despite of or maybe because of her age, is the quintessential free spirit. She still travels the world backpacking with friends and hiking in the mountains because it simply makes her happy. Once you find out what puts a smile on your face, keep doing that until it doesn’t.
Spend your money wisely. Buy experiences (ie travel), good food and good gear that will take you places. It’s hard to have buyer’s remorse.
Leggings and spandex count as pants.
Talk to strangers. This seems like the opposite of something I should have learned from my mom. But in all of our vacations and travels, some of the best experiences and friendships have blossomed out of great interactions.
Eat dessert. We’re both partial to a good salad or healthy meal, but my mom literally takes the cake when it comes to dessert. I’ve never seen anyone else her size eat a massive slice of cake plus half a pint of ice cream after a big dinner. But it’s a good lesson for me. It makes me realized that I don’t need to “should all over myself.” “I shouldn’t do that...etc” I’m prone to being overly rigid with things in my life I feel like I can control.
Always take the road less traveled. Sure it can be scary cause you might get lost along the way, but that’s all part of the grand adventure.