The Wise People Say…
Is the ancient saying that wisdom comes with age true? In the spirit of Seniors Month, I explored this age-old proverb with a group of seniors that I meet monthly at Barbara Frum Branch – the Nifty Frum Friends is what we call ourselves, a name developed to accentuate our high energy and edgy outlook on life.
At our recent meeting in May, as a mental-emotional health exercise, I read out popular life quotes that many of us consume for inspiration. Below is an example of a saying that some of you have likely heard before. I’ve followed up with some analysis (paraphrased) extracted directly from our group.
"Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind"
This sounds true, but when you really think about it, this can be viewed as a two-sided issue: self-expression vs. respecting the ‘other.’ Is it mannerly and respectful to say what really is on your mind (however negative it may be) to anybody anytime and every time you feel like it? Probably not but at the same time you have to be true to yourself. What’s a reasonable approach then? “It’s not about what you say but HOW you say it.” There is an art of being truthful and expressing it in a gentle way.
If you have a different take on this, discuss online or join us for our next meeting. The beauty of it all is that there is no right or wrong answer. On the topic of Seniors Month, Barbara Frum Branch is offering a nice range of programs. Earlier this month, we heard a lively discussion about Memory and Aging, followed by a live concert demonstrating the History of the Classic Guitar and a Restorative Meditation session. The programs continue with part two of Restorative Meditation on Wednesday June 13th at 6:30 PM, and Posture Improvement on Tuesday June 19th at 2 PM. For the knitters out there, join Centennial Knitter's Club every Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM. Note: the Decluttering workshop is cancelled and to be rescheduled.
Pictures are from senior programs this year … come out and see what people are buzzing about.
Comments