Risk Management/Risk Control Leader l Alderman - City of Needville, TX
This past weekend I was honored to take part in celebrating my neighbor's 104th birthday. Yes, 104! I alway love being able to spend time listening to him, a man that lived through the Great Depression, served valiantly on a submarine during World War II, and up until last year would be outside doing light work in his yard or working on his lawnmower. His resilience, wisdom, and perspectives always leave a mark on me, and I wanted to share some of the invaluable lessons I have gleaned from our conversations over the last few years: 1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity: Despite enduring the hardships of the Great Depression, including economic turmoil and widespread unemployment, he maintained an unwavering spirit of resilience. His ability to adapt to challenging circumstances serves as a powerful reminder that resilience is key to overcoming any obstacle. 2. The Power of Community: During his time in the military, he emphasized the importance of camaraderie and teamwork. Serving on a submarine required trust and cooperation among crew members, highlighting the profound impact of a strong support network. Building meaningful connections and leaning on others during tough times can make all the difference. 3. Embracing Change: From navigating the uncertainties of war to witnessing technological advancements over the past century, he emphasized the importance of embracing change. Rather than resisting or fearing change, he encouraged a mindset of curiosity and adaptability, recognizing that change often brings new opportunities for growth and innovation. 4. Gratitude and Perspective: Despite facing unimaginable challenges, he maintained a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings in his life. His perspective serves as a powerful reminder to cherish each moment and find gratitude even in the midst of adversity. He is so excited and grateful every time I take him over a plate of BBQ or a slice of dessert. 5. The Importance of Service: Above all, his life is a testament to the profound impact of service to others. Whether it was serving his country during wartime or lending a helping hand to those in need, he exemplified the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice. He is a large part of why I decided to serve in my city's government. In today's fast-paced world, we can all benefit from the timeless wisdom of those who have come before us. I hope I can honor his legacy by embodying the qualities of resilience, community, adaptability, gratitude, and service in my own life.
I love this. Thank you for sharing!
SVP, Transportation Practice Leader at Amwins
8moAppreciate you sharing what you've learned from him! Sounds like you both are lucky to have each other as neighbors!