Wisdom from the (S)ages

In addition to my older relatives, I love all that I've learned from my other special elders:

Mr. Mac:

• People matter more than things. (He always cheerfully greeted everyone.)
• Small can be extraordinary.  (He had penny candy in his corner grocery.)
• When you realistically trust others you will be rewarded. (He had credit accounts for groceries.)
• Sales tax doesn't discriminate.  (I saved my pennies to buy a 29 cent pair of sunglasses when I was 6 years old.  When I made my purchase, I was made aware that sales tax was added to every purchase.)
• Big (empty) boxes (toilet paper, etc.) yield countless hours of pleasure.  We made incredible creations using Mr. Mac's big boxes.
• Family is broader than birth.  We didn't realize for many years that Amy and Beth weren't our cousins.

Mrs. Hayden:

• There's always time to visit.
• Friendship can transcend age and distance.

Miss Gray:

• We also benefit when we help others achieve their goals.
• Learning what we are not passionate about propels us to discover what matters.
• Communicating with older friends keeps us connected.
• I am not a pianist. Practice and passion are required to perfect musical ability. However, reading and appreciating classical music are life skills that I treasure.
• Creating our own annual stage allows us to celebrate many successes.

Mrs. Craig:

• Age is just a number.
• Staying active keeps us young.
• There are certain things that I cannot physically do.
• I can do things that those older than I am cannot.
• Family includes genetics and preferences.

Mr. Condry:

• The workplace recognizes role v. age.  Do what you are hired to do.
• Mentors help.
• Results rule.
• Presentations can make or break.
• Everyone needs someone to respect them.
• When we are willing to learn, we also teach.