"Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship" -Buddha

It is nothing more beautiful to look into the eyes of an elder who has aged gracefully. How can we live with a higher quality of life? How can we age gracefully? How can we live life more fully? As we age, we can come home to our true self that reflects inner peace, inner beauty and love. The heart of love is content and at peace.

In this day of time, many people are struggling to defy nature for outer beauty and anti-aging products at all costs even to the extent of bodily disfigurement with a desire to be accepted, feel worthy, loved; and to be regarded as having timeless beauty even though it is superficial and unnatural. This is particularly true in Western society. During my time spent in the East especially during festivals and celebrations, the elders were honored and revered. Upon entering homes with the presence of elders, you paid respect with humble gestures. I had the opportunity to visit homes during many cultural celebrations including Hari Raya, Mooncake Festival, Chinese New Year, Deepavli (Festival of Lights) and the Indian Firewalk Festival. On many ocassions sitting and talking with elders reflecting on the history of the land and memories from the past, witnessing of progress over time were memorable experiences. Dr. Jean Marie highlights the wisdom that radiating from her beloved grandmother with echoes of he voice that remain in her heart.

Aging gracefully is living well, nurturing your inner self. Wellbeing and self-care is an art of living. There is an interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit and it's essential to nurture each aspect of ourselves with love and compassion. The most important relationship with ourselves. Dr. Jean Marie highlights the importance of nurturing and caring for ourselves physically, mentally, emotionally, intellectually and spiritually. Being in harmony with ourselves is important for overall wellbeing. She shares ways to live well and age gracefully by being appreciative, continuing to learn and grow, creating wholesome connetions, and paying it forward.

Our Love In Action Practice is to reflect on your seasons of life. How have you grown? What valuable lessons have you learned? How have you become more resilient through life challenges? Reflect on how you would like to be during this phase of your life. What are your dreams and aspirations. Take small steps with inspired action to make your dreams a reality.

Reflect on how you are caring for each aspect of yourself. How do you nurture your physical, mental, emotional, intellectual and spiritual aspects of yourself?

Share your insights,observations and experiences. Email: jean72farish@yahoo.com

Dr. Jean Marie closes with her excerpts on Savor Life and Simple Pleasures.