This is the first Mother’s Day without my mother. She died last fall a day shy of her 95th birthday. As I think of her I see that she has left us a legacy of wisdom tips. She would describe them as common sense. She was born in Estonia into a comfortable life which changed drastically during the Second World War. As a young woman of 29 she fled with her husband, mother, and four young children to Austria and later came to the USA. Looking back at her life I can see that it was her optimism, tenacity, and spirit that sustained and nurtured our family.
Life tips from my mother:
1. Be open to change
Events happen and circumstances change. Change is part of life. You are best off putting your energy into finding solutions.
2. Go with the flow
That is much better than fighting things that are truly out of your control. Use your common sense to figure out the difference.
3. Let go of regrets
Regrets can keep you stuck in the past. Appreciate what you had but put your energy into the present where you can create your future.
4. Draw on your resilience
All of us have strengths inside us that we do not even know are there until we truly need them. Trust yourself and rise to the occasion.
5. Do not forget to go for a daily walk because it will clear your head and be good for your body.
6. Remember you will always possess what is inside you
Material things can end up being temporary but the knowledge you carry within you is there forever. Get all the education you can, apply yourself, and enjoy what you are doing.
7. Do not complain
Complaining wastes energy. Instead be pleasant and have a positive outlook.
8. Be generous, loving, and share laughter with others.
