Thankgod C. Wanyanwu

 What I Know at 64 that I Didn’t Know at 24

 

• Key to a Happy Marriage: Listen to the story, then listen some more, then listen even more. Don’t try to offer brainy solutions. Occasionally state in a quiet, respectful tone the words, “Yes, Dear”.

• You are what you eat. Read about nutrition – certain foods agree with you, others don’t. Experiment with your own body chemistry. I try to avoid coffee and sugar.

• The French have an aphorism that you don’t appreciate something until you don’t have it anymore. In 40 years from now what is it that you will regret not having accomplished, appreciated or attempted?  Do it, appreciate it, attempt it NOW!

• The greatest “adventure” is the ability to INQUIRE, TO ASK QUESTIONS. Sometimes in the process of inquiry, the search is more significant than the answers.  Answers come from other people, from the universe of knowledge and history, and from the intuition and deep wisdom inside yourself.

• Physical exercise is important at any age to reduce stress and optimize well being. Include the full range of cardiovascular, muscle building and stretching –yoga. Join a health club with a swimming pool.  When you can’t get to the health club, take 30 minute brisk walks, breathe and be in the moment.

• Life gives and takes away. During difficult times, be committed to resolving problems, but also lighten up and ride the waves of impermanence. What is a monster problem today will be a forgotten thought in the future.

• Achievements are the result of preparation.

• Supporting, guiding, and making contributions to other people is one of life’s greatest rewards. In order to get, you have to give.

• Time is of the essence. You are born and you will die. Don’t waste the time in between. Use a time management system to control events, rather than have events controlling you.  Read Getting Things Done by David Allen.

• Shakespeare’s character Hamlet tells us that “nothing is good or bad as thinking makes it so”.   As a problem solver, or at any point to gain clarity with your own mind and emotional state, try this inquiry from the author Byron Katie: What is the “story” that is going on in my mind at this moment?  Is it true?  How do I know  that it is true?  What is the situation like with this story?  What would my life be like at this point without this story?