Learning keeps you young and vibrant! It was my mother's favorite activity, always attending different workshops. I've spoken to many older individuals who credit learning new things for their vitality and zest for life.
The spice of life is trying new activities. Are you bored? Try something different!
At the farm, there is a pit that has a mother duck and six ducklings. We watch them daily. We questioned how and when they would learn to fly and get up over all the plant life and hills surrounding the pit. It's like they live in a rut. "Now, there is an article for the Mountaineer. How to get out of the rut!"
Ruth Merrill, my mother-in-law, is 98 years old, and when she told us she had never ridden in a combine that she remembers, we thought a ride in a combine was long overdue. Her generation was responsible for making meals and taking them to the fields, not for any farm labor. She does remember picking rock one summer during the war. She didn't have any difficulty climbing the ladder to get into the combine, nor any problems going down the ladder. She enjoyed watching the wheat go into the combine and watched as it filled up the tank and was delivered to the truck. It was an incredible moment for everyone.
It made me realize how important it is to try new things. We live in a small community, where familiarity is valued. Yet, it's crucial to step out of our comfort zones. Ruth's experience inspired me, and I hope it inspires you too. Regardless of age, we all need a little push to try something new. This is your push. Embrace it. Learn something different.
