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| This is a picture of the little house my parents live in during a past winter snowstorm. |
My mom is a great example of not giving up, making the most of events, and doing things in special ways. Earlier this week she hosted my brother's family for his 55th birthday party. The children were delighted with the holiday decorations, and one of her great-grandchildren even asked if my mom would host dinners like that more often again, the way she had done in the past. The almost twelve-year-old great-granddaughter offered to come after school, "put on an apron, and cook the meal." That girl notices quality when she sees it and she knows that classic, welcoming, multi-generational dinners are a keeper when it comes to good living.
It's easy to give up in life. My mom like most people has had many challenges thrown at her throughout life and every time she's risen from those challenges with a sense of joy and strength. Her main strategy in this regard is to seize the moment, do something fun, and reach out to help someone else. She still cleans her home, bakes, and entertains regularly. At Christmas she had a gift for everyone she loves and spent many hours leading up to the holiday shopping for those special gifts. By the way, she hosted a Christmas Eve dinner as well--three dinners in a week's span, amazing!
Fortunately, her sidekick, my almost 86-year-old dad doesn't let entropy get in the way either. He painted his house this fall, takes care of the yard, helps my mom with all the household chores, and regularly snow plows his own and the neighbors' driveways and walks. As he's done for the last fifty years of more, he takes his daily walk, fixes broken household items, and enjoys sports games on television and those played by his many grandchildren.
My parents have lived a long, happy life. They've always done their best, and like the owners of Cid's Market that Godin refers to, they don't give in to mediocrity and do all they can to live a good life themselves and for others. There's much to be learned from their example as I move forward.
Update: My mom is nearly 90 now. I spoke to her yesterday and said, "You are very positive." She replied, "What choice do I have. I might as well be positive." She continues to live with as much zest as possible.
Update 2022: At 92, Mom is weary these days. Having battled a stroke in February 2021 (one and a half years ago) and increasing dementia, her days are made up of sleeping, a bit of eating, and relaxing with Dad in the den or living room. She rarely complains, demonstrates her zest now and then, and though her ability to speak is greatly hindered, she often responds with a thank you and a smile. For mom, the final chapter is what they call, a long goodbye.