Lessons from a 91 Year Old

I’m going to say something and I really hope it doesn’t come off as insensitive….But…

Old people love me.

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Hear me out. First of all, I’m not talking about people who are 50 or 60…because hey…that’s young! I’m talking 90s. OLD. But I’m going to be honest, they flock to me. Drum up conversations like we’re Bunko buddies. I think it’s because I have an old soul, and they feel as though they’re conversing with a peer. Like they’re chattin’ it up with a fellow Red Hat Society member. I know…like I said…I’m a catch.

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But there I was, at the fish counter doing the grocery shopping for my parents, when this cute little old man with wirey hair and a big ol’ grin, came up to me and started talking to me. He advised me on how to cook salmon to perfection, complimented my hair, and then casually proceeded to tell me his life story.

And let me tell you, I love talking to the elderly, because I always leave with a little nugget of wisdom or a new perspective.

Anywho, he shared how he’s 91 years old and moved to the US from Germany at age 24 with “diddly squat.” [His words.] He fought in World War II for the Germans, and then flew 40 missions for the US against the Soviet Union.

He told me about how he was the first millionaire in his family, and has three Mercedes an a Porche — pronounced “Porsh-UH.” And how he buys stuffed tilapia every night because “his cat likes it,” and he shares it with her. And yes, he was talking about the animal. 🙂

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Now I’m gonna be honest, at first I was a little annoyed. I was in a hurry, and was doing something on my phone, and here comes this guy out of left field. I’m a New Yorker. Slower walkers and slow talkers are way up there on my pet peeve list. It’s right up there next to people who eat smelly takeout on the subway. Just. No.

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But listening to this stout, weathered old man, I couldn’t help but just love him. You could tell he was hungry for some conversation, and so gosh darn it, I could spare a few minutes.

But he said something to me that really stuck out to me. He looked me dead in the eye and said, “Go after the world, grab it, and run with it.”

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And that really hit me. Here was this 91 year old man telling me to grab the world? It just almost felt a little disconnected.

And I thought about it the whole way home and for a lot of the rest of the day. What could have prompted that jolly little cat man to tell me to grab the world and run with it. That’s not what someone of his…maturity…typically says. I mean, it had to come from somewhere. What in his life would have made him internalize and believe that?

And I thought about it and thought about it. And he had obviously seen a lot of death. Come close to it himself, probably – in all the wars he participated in.

Grab the world and run with it.

This, coming from a self made millionaire cat man, who rolls up to Kroger in a Porche.

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This man gave me that advice, because he had done that.

He had gone after the world. Literally. He left his family and friends and life in Germany, and moved to America with nothing. And he built a really good life for himself.

That was the world that he went after. And dagnabit, he did what he set out to do. So good on him.

It made me think…what is “the world” that I’m going after?

Really. It sounds like a simple question, but when I stop and think about it, what is it that makes me get up in the morning? What gives me purpose? Fulfills the longings of my heart.

And the more I thought about it, it’s not money or cars or the latest handbags or Kardashian whereabouts. Although, if that’s yours, then more power to ya.

I’ve learned more and more here these past three months after my mom’s stroke, that “my world” has changed. Ask me back in 2016 before all this happened, and I would have a drastically different answer…something along the lines of, acting career and fabulous outings with friends and loved ones, with faith coming in a distant third.

But today, I’m singing a different tune.

Today, “my world” is love. The love for my family. Love for my friends. And love for Jesus.

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Because when you’re sitting in a hospital room with an unconscious mother, you learn real fast what’s important to you.

Go after the world, grab it, and run with it.

Again, as has been the norm here recently, God’s timing is just impeccable. Because as I was relaying this story to my parents that evening, what comes in the mail? But a notification letter that I’ve been accepted into SAG – the Screen Actor’s Guild – the union for actors. Which, if you know anything about the entertainment industry, it’s a big deal. It’s what I’ve worked for six years for.

Here I am on the cusp of the “jump off point” of my life, and leave it to God to literally present me with two opposing “worlds” on the same day.

God, once again, you’ve outdone yourself. I’m chuckling at your sneakiness.

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I don’t know why I was supposed to run into that man today. Why I was supposed to pick up that sacred salmon. Maybe he was an angel? Maybe he was just a socially-deprived veteran with an affinity for cats with a sophisticated pallet.

But when we left, he looked at me and said…”I’ll leave you with the German’s Rule of the Day.” And with a wink he whispered, “Stay beautiful.”

If he only knew…

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289 responses to “Lessons from a 91 Year Old”

  1. Congratulations on getting into SAG!
    Strangers are pretty open with me as well. I used to work front desk at a hotel, and on my first day a sixty-ish year old truck driver from Texas got super comfortable with me. It was all well and good until when he showed me where his colostomy bag hooked up to his lower back. It was, uh, memorable.

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    • Thanks so much Joss! I appreciate that! Yeah we. Just have stabbed targets on our backs! Oh wow, he got real comfortable real fast! Yikes! Thanks for stopping by. Hugs and love xox

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  3. Beautiful story. God let people live to teach. Consider yourself someone very special. Older folks can see your soul. They can tell you are good and that you must spread that transcending goodness to the world. So take it as you have. Go give and teach as those old souls want you to. Go give love unconditional. Great read and thank you for sharing… God Bless..

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  4. Just goes to show, don’t trust “cat” people. Just kidding. I would think a man of his age would have given better advice. Just goes to show sometimes youngsters are wiser in some things. And congrats! I’m ASAP member.

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  8. I have no doubts about you staying beautiful ! Inside and out! Congratulations on the acceptance letter! Another affirmation of your multiple talents. I try to read every post you write….this might be my favorite. I pray for you and your family.

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    • Thanks Rick:) I appreciate that. Gosh that’s kind of you to say. And yes! I’m pretty excited! Thanks for your continued prayers. You rock friend. Hugs and love xox

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  9. Theres lots to be learned from the elderly, and while I’m glad he is proud of his success, at his age you truly understand that material things are unimportant. You can’t tell who has what or who comes from money in palliative care and love is really all that matters.

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  13. this is so inspirational ! and it is so beautifully said. i almost cry thinking of how many missed chances of grabbing the world I had. but happily, I will learn my lesson and actually grab it next time 🙂 again, thank you for writing so beautifully a story that is in fact reality ! keep going !

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  16. What a great experience and it has made an impression on me, too, and I wasn’t even there! And I believe your priorities are in better order this year than last. Bless you!

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  17. what a beautiful point and right conclusions.. Thank you for this beautifully written piece of mind, and for setting the atmosphere of the evening..
    Love is always the answer:)
    Congratulations on being accepted to SAG! Big things are on the way to you!

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  18. Amazing post Caralyn, congrats on the SAG! Well deserved. 🙂

    Also, the new blog style looks great, especially that photo of you up top 😉

    Very touching/striking story of the old man, I wonder what prompted him to give you that particular piece of advice, hmm… gotta love old people sometimes haha.. ciao <3 xo

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    • Thank you so much!! Aw I’m glad you like it! I figured it was about time for a little update 🙂 thanks – yeah it was a great interaction. Ciao my friend! Hugs and love xox

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  19. When you said two different worlds, did you mean the acting, and life back in New York and the other world the adventure of helping your family through this medical journey?

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    • Yeah, it’s kinda like the one world of chasing the dreams of acting/NYC of the other world of love/family/Ohio. It’s just impeccable timing for these things to coincide like that. Thanks for reading! Hugs and love xox

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      • Of course I never miss one of your posts 😉 I was making sure I had it right now to my comment LOL I know we’ve talked about coincidences, and how I don’t think there are any 🙂 God is amazing with how He lines things up.

        Maybe this old soul millionaire cat man 🙂 well, YOU were the blessing for him today, taking time talking, listening to him, etc. Maybe God used him, his words to give you, 1) go after the world, grab it, and run with it, 2) “stay beautiful”, so later you would know that was from Him.

        Maybe the reward for all your hard work, on not just your acting, but also on yourself, helping your family, and growing with Him, and today your unselfish kindness to a total stranger even though, as you said you were “at first annoyed” 🙂 lol But you blessed that man with your time, and interest. Maybe that part was for him but God blessed you with something that you had been working for 6 whole years(Congratulations on your SAG card by the way) It’s like to me the man today was that final exam, if you will, and God rewarded you, with your SAG, for all the work you’ve been putting in. As a sign that see this hasn’t all been for naught, you didn’t leave everything.

        As in “I am” and I see all you have done, and how far you have come, and you haven’t given up, I remember your dreams, I see your goodness, and sacrifice, and here’s a reward. Now, go after the world, grab it, run with it, and stay beautiful 🙂

        But then again that’s a lot of “maybe’s” 🙂 LOL Lots of hugs xoxo

      • You are seriously amazing. THANK YOU. I am seriously fighting back tears as I am reading this incredibly *thoughtful* and beautiful note. I can’t begin to express how much it mean to have such a wonderful friend. When you put it that way, it’s as clear as the nose on your face that it was a nudge from God. I mean, wow. And seriously, how awesome are YOU that you would hash through this with me. You’re a blessing to me. Period. And I am grateful for you!! Hope that you have a blessed Easter weekend. Sending such big hugs and love xox

      • You are too sweet!!! After I hit the submit bottom, I thought oh my goodness MAYBE I could have found a shorter way to say that. LOL Lots of love my friend, Happy Easter!!!

  21. Okay I refuse to believe this is just a coincidence. There’s just no way!!! I’m an old soul too and I’ve had some nice conversations with older people too. 🙂 I loved this whole post, and the punchline at the end “stay beautiful” made. My. World. 😂 I love this so much, thanks for sharing this magical story. Good life advice too.

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    • Same!! It was WAY too much of a coincidence. It seems like that’s happening more and more these days! haha Yes! I definitely can feel that ‘old soul-ness’ come through. I personally believe its a great quality 🙂 hehe Thanks friend. I know, when he said that, I wanted to be like…wait a minute…am I getting Punked?? Do you read my blog??? I mean SERIOUSLY!!! What a crazy crazy coincidence. Thanks for stopping by my beautiful friend! hope that you have a lovely weekend! xoxo

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  23. I just listened on Patreon. As always, it’s a richer experience! I’m afraid I wrote a bit of a book, but you got me thoughts going. That plus an experience today on the job. Caralyn, I AM SO happy for you to have earned your SAG card! Well done, my friend!!

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  25. Although its easy to think that when you are down the world will be kind and lift you up, there is nothing more helpful than being the agent of your own happiness.

    Once you are that person The world will be easier kinder and more receptive. Happiness favors those who chose it.

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  29. A big part of my work life over the years has been focused on elderly people. People of his age have amazing remarkable stories to tell.

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    • Hi Kate! That’s so awesome. You’re right – their stories really are remarkable. And what’s even more amazing is how their stories (and the wisdom from them) spans the test of time and still holds true today! Sounds like you’ve worked some pretty incredible jobs 🙂 Thanks for stopping by! big hugs xo

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  30. Best prayers Caralyn to you on your accomplishment with SAG. I would not want the responsibility of making decisions you are going to have to make! Whatever your decisions are they will not be wrong! Just choices to exercise your free will God has giving you.

    You know Caralyn, Jesus shook the whole world and never had a penny or home to his name. You are on the right track with the love idea, love crucified arose one Sunday a long time ago. As you grab the world, do it to love the world, and your awesome God. Usual gifts that God is giving you do for the good news of Jesus.

    As I give the advice I remember that I get lost a lot on this one. There is plenty of grace and forgiveness for missed opportunities. Be strong and courageous and do not forget the love part of your life. As long as Love is true, love of God will be with you in a tangible way because God is love.

    I celebrate with you Caralyn!
    denny

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    • Thank you so much Denny! I really appreciate it! Yeah, definitely going to leave this one in God’s hands and just take it one day at a time and trust that Jesus is going to lead me right where He wants me to be. And what a comforting thought about the missed opportunities. Gosh, I am so grateful for this incredibly encouraging note. you are generous with your kindness 🙂 big hugs xox

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      • I have a Perfect Kindness Teacher. I do not come close to expressing the deep and wide kindness Jesus has shown me. Remember, God is magnified in His children. I can see it in your posted walk with Jesus. HE has risen in deed! Walk with great joy/pride with all _tTt__Jesus__tTt_ has done, is, and will do.

  32. Usual gifts that God is giving you do for the good news of Jesus.
    Well it was supposed to be this instead of the aforementioned sentence that makes no sense.

    Use the gifts that God has given you to further the gospel of Jesus Christ with joy!

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  34. Joining up with everyone to congratulate you on your acceptance. I am sure you have worked very hard to achieve that distinction. Thank you for the wonderful post. The “Oldest Old” are our nation’s greatest treasure. I am so happy for you that you know what your world must be now. Listen to your heart, because that is where the Holy Spirit lives. LUVYA!

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    • Oh thank you so much Sherron! I so agree – they are definitely our nation’s treasure. Thanks for the kind words! And amen to that – We have been left with a Guide. An Advisor. Advocate. We just have to listen 🙂 glad you stopped by! hugs oxo

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  36. What a beautiful post! I can totally picture this happening and love the timing of it all. God is good, and he has such a good plan for you!

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    • Hiya Apes!! Thanks 🙂 Yeah, it was such serendipitous timing. Who’da thunk that buying salmon could be such a spiritual exercise! 🙂 hehe Hope Good Friday is filled with a a beautiful connection to His incredible love. Sending big big big hugs 🙂 Say hi to your fellas for me 🙂 love ya! xoxo

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  37. Another great post. No words of wisdom from me tonight – you wrote them all. Congrats on your acceptance. I pray it gets you closer to where you want to your goal. Keep writing. You are so talented hope your career doesn’t get in the way of your blogging. John

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    • Thanks so much John. I appreciate your prayers so much. Yeah, I’m trying to figure out a way to merge the two!! if you have any ideas, I’d definitely *love* to hear them!! thanks for such kind words. You are generous with your encouragement and I am so grateful for that 🙂 sending big big hugs xox

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    • Thank you so much Teri. Glad it made you smile 🙂 Same to you! I just got back a little while ago from Holy Thursday mass. It’s always so beautiful with the washing of feet. And I love that – an alive Easter. Isn’t that what we should aim for!! big hugs to you xox

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    • thank you so much Susan! Not going to lie, I had to look up what octogenarians meant…haha Love that word! Glad you enjoy hanging out with “80-somethigs” too! 😉 heheheh hugs xo

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  40. Great Quote…I really believe people come in and out of our lives for a reason. In tnis case it’s to teach and inspire..

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    • Thank you so much Pat! I so agree – A reason, a season, or a lifetime. Yes! This man definitely taught me a lot and gave me some powerful food for thought. Little did he know that his quick conversation would have such an impact on my heart 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by! hope you have a beautiful evening. hugs xo

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  41. Good read, hits home 🙂
    .
    .
    “ Every path is the right path. Everything could’ve been anything else. And it would have just as much meaning.”
    ― Mr. Nobody

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    • Thank you so much Emily! haha you’re funny. Yeah I think I’m a grandma at heart too! A night owl grandma, but a grandma nonetheless 🙂 Hope you’re having a great week. big hugs xox

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    • Hi Robyn! Thank you so much for sharing this. I agree-I think I was definitely supposed to meet that gentleman that day. I mean wow! What impeccable timing! Hugs and love xox

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  46. Congratulations Caralyn. I wish you all the best. What a lovely little man! Yes, I agree with you – that cannot be a chance meeting – divinely orchestrated 😉.

    Have a blessed Easter. xx

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    • Thank you so much Sharon! I really appreciate that. Yeah, I’m pretty excited. Definitely divinely orchestrated!! 😇 thanks for stopping by. You too! Have a blessed (and hoppy😉) Easter! Hugs and love xox

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  48. A very beautiful post! I compare elderly people to cats. They can see through you therefore your soul is like an open book for them! 😊

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    • Thank you so much Anya! Haha oh my gosh I’ve never heard that before about cats. But I think you’re right! They (cats and the elderly) really do get a sense of your true colors 🙂 thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

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  49. This post was do heart warming! Congrats first, for a wise decision to care for your family, and on spending the time with the older man, and SAG! I believe that God is always at work. He had to send you home before you received SAG…there were valuable life lessons there. Lessons you needed prior SAG. Just know that grabbing the world by the trail is different than loving the world. This is what God said: “Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever (1 John 2;15-17). Ssssssssooooo, He sends you home, gets you ready, opens the door, and sends you out with ALL that love and light to grab the world (people) but not love the world (system). God’s timing is perfect! 🙂 :-):-)

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  50. Congratulations! I love your writing, wit, and the way you put your personality into it all. I pray all the best for you and your mother’s recovery xx

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  52. The world you are forging is a beautiful world, full of light, energy, and love. When sorrow hits, there is hope through prayer and faith that all will be well no matter how tough. You are forging a place that so many others have no clue how to direct toward. Your world is a blessed one and all who you bring into it are truly blessed. God Bless you today, Viernes Santo, and every day. You are the most wonderful actress ever!! xoxoxoxoxoxo

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    • Oh Migueltio, thank you friend. Amen – there IS hope through prayer and faith. That is so so true. Thanks, same to you. I hope you have a powerful and moving Good Friday. God is amazing. And so are you:) Hugs and love xox

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  54. I needed to read this post for my day! I know….Old people are just so full of wisdom and experience. I never take them for granted!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!

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  55. I believe it is possible to be a professional actress and live a values-based life. The entertainment industry could use a few more people who are rooted in love of family and faith in Jesus. Congratulations on being accepted into the SAG. Stand firm in your beliefs.

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    • Thanks so much for this perspective Madeline. I think you’re right. It doesn’t have to be an either or. It can be a both/and 🙂 thanks so much for your kind words and support. Big hugs to you xox

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  56. 1. Thanks for saying 50 & 60 is young.
    2. 🙁 I am a 0slow walker and a slow talker, sorry.

    With that said, we as a society don’t give our seasoned citizens enough time and enough respect. My dad is in assisted living, he has Alzheimer’s and dementia. I’m the only one of his six kids that gives him any time. I love going there and talking with other residents. Hearing their stories and seeing their faces light up having company is an awesome feeling. xoxo

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    • Thanks! Haha no worries. You’re so right- they deserve the utmost respect. I’m sorry to hear that about your dad. Ill definitely keep him and your family in my thoughts and prayers.

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  57. I’m glad you don’t think we people in our 60s are old (yet).

    BTW, I see you’ve made a few graphic changes to your BlogSpot.

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  59. God’s timing does indeed confound (and at times frustrate), but it is always perfect. I think others have said it – this time with your family was a grounding for when you do go out and chase your dreams through acting. No, I don’t believe God caused the stroke, but I do believe He has and will continue to use it for you and for your family. All the best to you.

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    • Thanks so much Russell. Yes that is very true- always perfect albeit frustrating at times. I think you’re right- He’s using this all for good. Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

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  60. Congratulations, Caralyn, on your achievement. I only knew one actor, I guess. Well, one who went on to be an actor, anyway. A kid I knew in my high school. One year younger than I. Last I knew, he was also living in New York City working as an actor. He made some comment on Facebook one time about Screen Actors Guild this-or-that. I don’t really remember what it was. I don’t know much about that stuff. The last I read from him was a scheduling conflict where he had to turn down Kanye West for a project. A lot of people thought that was funny. I guess I did, too. I haven’t kept up with him or the other kids from high school for a lot of years for a number of reasons. Anyway, congrats. Talking of 90-year-old war vets, I know one of those. I’ve always loved listening to his stories. Things ain’t like they used to be, though. He can’t walk like he used to. He told me one time, “Old age wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for the old age.” Life changes, and so do we. Everything good turns bad, and everything bad turns worse. Unless anyone out there is living some fairy tale wonderful life and has had the great pleasure of avoiding pitfalls and danger seamlessly. Not me. You mentioned some time before that you were going through a transition phase. That looks very evident now. You have quite a positive vibe of late, although I must say, I have never known a person to use the word “verklempt” as often as you do. And although I remember the story of Lazarus, I had never taken so much notice of it until your repeated references to it in your writings. Thanks for that. Those of us who are dead to the world appreciate it.

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    • Old age wouldn’t be so bad if it weren’t for the old age. Gosh isn’t that quite the sentiment! Thanks for sharing that, dan. And wow turning down Yesus?! That’s one for the record books. Sounds like your friend is pretty legit! Hugs and love xox

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      • Don’t give me any credit. I didn’t know him that well! I only really talked to him once, and that was in college. I wasn’t much of the social butterfly in high school–or junior high–or intermediate school. Go back to pre-school, though, before I blocked myself with social inhibition, and I was a different person willing to express myself. If I were to know any of the kids that I “knew”, I’d have to start from zero. My nose was always in my math books, literally. Even at sports events.

      • You’re right. I never thought about it before, but it must be written in the universal language of love. I saw math exercises explained and performed in Chinese one time. All the numbers I recognized completely, even though the solution set was carried out in Chinese. How about that!

  62. Congrats on the SAG! Kudos to you. Love the new facelift on the site as well. Most people just take these encounters for granted – they are moving too fast in life to recognize. If they would slow down just a bit – they just might see Gods’ work and beauty!!!

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    • Thank you so much!! Aw I really appreciate that! And I’m glad you like it! You’re right- His work is all around us. We just need to open our eyes! Hugs and love xox

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  63. Congratulations girl! Very happy for you. The Screen Actors guild is an awesome accomplishment.., what’s next?? I know what you mean about having someone just start up a conversation with you and you’re like, “oh man.. I have so much to do, I just don’t have time.” But then it hits you, God always has a plan and a purpose.. just look up from the phone and listen. It always takes me a moment or two to bring on the patience needed to accept what God is trying to give. Enjoyed the article, we are all so different and yet perfectly alike. Thanks for sharing!

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    • Thank you so much!! That’s so kind of you to say. You’re right. If we give the conversation a minute, God will always teach us something through that stranger. Thanks for tHe encouragement. Hugs and love xox

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  64. It’s been a while, but I’m glad that I stopped by.
    Congratulations on SAG!
    Have a blessed Easter my friend and God bless you and your family.
    Tiffany

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  66. I’m one of those people who doesn’t know what
    they want yet and how to grab it without talking big risks with very little what they have, because what’s face it, you always have something to loose and something to gain, but what’s wrofth losing to gain what you want?

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      • Yeah “go big or go home” but their are many ways to look at it, like that 91 year old man being in wars. He might of thought at one time, “Ran alway and fight an other day, or die here fighting to the very end like theirs no tomorrow.”

      • Gosh, that’s another powerful little slogan. Makes me grateful that I’ve never been involved in a war like that. Makes me appreciate our service men and women too. hugs xo

  67. My grandmother would have chatted you up in the fish section of Krogers too. 🐟 Love that bookshelf (more in upcoming blog about reading what is already on my bookshelf) in the photo. 👓 Sorry to be so scarce recently… very busy couple of weeks with visitors around, then a workshop, working extra hours and days to cover for a co-worker, then giving a lecture at the local university… 😳 Well, it’s Friday. We have a new, small greenhouse in the back of the truck, and it’s Date Night (Mikado at the local university). Time to catch up at the coffee shop… ☕️
    Oscar

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    • Aw, I would have loved to chat with your grandma! Thanks! Yeah, I was at a wedding last weekend and found that bookshelf. The encyclopedias were from 1896!! How cool is that!?! No worries! it’s great to hear from you Oscar 🙂 Enjoy your evening! big hugs xox

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  68. S A G. Awesome. Two years from now you’ll be on location in “Hollywood East” Pittsburgh, getting caught up in a Twitter mixup with Taylor Swift and later on an appearance on Ellen in 2022. Can’t wait. Just don’t seek my advice on trendy spots in Pittsburgh. I’m 41. I’ve been out of the game since 2004. 😁

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    • Thanks so much !! Hahahaha oh my gosh this made me laugh out loud. You’re funny. Of all those things, I think being on Ellen would be the coolest! 😎 keep dreaming, right!? Haha thanks for making me smile. Hugs and love xox

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  70. By your writing ability I know you will be an academy awards winner in the future. Your words paint a lovely picture and show a wonderful heart. God bless your plans. Don’t stop writing. All the best.

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  72. I firmly believe that the world is filled with Angels, just humans that are there at the right time and place to give you a moment for you to believe again. And that was an awesome moment.

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  73. Aww. 🙂 I know what you mean. My grandma is 96, and she still writes me on paper every couple weeks, since she has never owned a computer or cell phone. And, yes, congratulations on making it into the SAG!

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  75. That is a very nice story! I believe in angels and perhaps an angel speaks to him to talk to you not to decline an opportunity that will come your way. 🙂 You are beautiful, who says not? Cheers!

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  76. You have a kind heart and truly listen. This is extremely rare. We old people especially ones who have lost a spouse need someone to listen to us and can see in your eyes that you a kind person; it makes you pretty. This post is beautiful. I’m please that you read my blog; it is like you listening to the old guy in you post. Please accept my thank you on his behalf. I also need to feel someone is listening . When your identity is bound with another, as spouses are, the new separated (physically my wife is still with me in my heart) reality is a foreign landscape. We need someone to witnessing our journey in this most unforgiving of landscapes. <3

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    • Aw thank you so much for this beautiful comment. Gosh I am so touched by your kind words. I can’t imagine the heartache of that new landscape-thank you for sharing that. Know that you’ve got a friend in me 🙂 Hugs and love xox

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  77. And you will take these experience with you on your journey. I am the same and older folks have always (still do) been attracted to me and I to them. The wise ones and when you pay attention to what they are saying you realize how valuable of a gift they bring to you. 😊

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  78. Thank you for sharing this. I can relate to the old people thing. They gravitate towards me too. I’ve been considering the life I want to live recently and I think I’ll grab the world. I’m not religious at all, but this resonated with me. Also, dagnabbit is my new favorite word. Keep well. X

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  79. Amazing! I am new to my new journey and dreams of writing and sharing my story or recovery through Christ, but I’m keeping the faith that God will lead me according to His will and in His time. Reading your writings, though, gives me inspiration and hope. Thoroughly enjoying! Thank you!!

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    • Thanks so much Taylor! Yes!! He does have a good plan for you that is in perfect timing. I’m so glad my post resonated with you. have a great afternoon! big hugs xo

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  80. Great post and important message. We (i.e. the generation now “running things”) all too regularly dismiss the generations before us as “misinformed”, “didn’t know any better”, or “past it”. I think if we all spent a little time listening and learning the lessons of those who have gone before us, we’d all be doing a lot better.

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  82. I know just what you mean, old people love me too. I genuinely love chatting about the past – everyone has interesting stories, even if they think they’ve had the dullest life. Huge congrats at getting in SAG! Happy Easter from across the seas.

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    • Thank you so much! Yes! I so agree- everyone has a story and there’s so much to be learned from everyone. Thanks for stopping by and happy Easter to you too! Hugs and love xox

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  84. Going to the last part – I don’t care if it’s a German saying – that he parted saying “Stay beautiful” It means he knows you ARE presently beautiful. And have remained in that state, no matter what it feels like. That was not a “line” uttered by some guy who was “after you” but you should know that men don’t lose their ability to know beauty as they age. Which means – and yeah, I’m doing some logical extrapolation – there are many good men your age who know your beauty as well.

    One thing that I’m convinced DOES change with age is openness to say and write things. I wouldn’t call it inhibitions coming down as much as developed wisdom that knows when to be quiet and when to make sure you say what is needed, to love, to encourage and to bless. I’m glad you met up with this guy because clearly he spoke words that many others would. And you took time to listen and really hear his version of carpe diem. That made and presently makes you a much wiser, richer person.

    Congratulations on your SAG membership!! You are a lady of many talents. You have no idea how much good you are doing by being vulnerable enough to share your life.

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    • Gosh, you are so kind to say that. Thank you so much 🙂 I am incredibly touched by your words of encouragement and kindness. Hearing him say that to me, i was just filled with so much warmth and it made me smile. I think you’re right – they have so much wisdom to share and I wish I had more opportunities to learn and interact with older people. Thanks for stopping by. Big big hugs to you xox

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  85. The one thing you’ve hit on is that how valuable and fulfilling life lessons can be if we just pause, listen and contemplate our interactions. You asked if he was your guardian angel…I believe that we do have angels living among us and some in the most unpredictable places. But it takes an open mind to engage with them and the timing will always be right. My father suffered the last 25 years of his life and believe me I know what you mean when you said you learn real quick about what’s important in your life. I learned that no matter what the circumstances are, God is always showing us a path and sometimes more than one…it’s up to us to decide…in my last Blog I have a line I think you can appreciate ….. “Does God reward us for doing the right thing or is just the act of doing the right thing the reward…”

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    • Thank you so much for sharing this. Gosh, I’m so sorry to hear that your father had to walk that road. You’re right, God is in control and will reward us for doing the right thing. Thanks for the encouragement. Hugs and love xox

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  87. Maybe the reason why you connect to old people is you have the same belief when it comes to moral values. A lot of young people are deprive of nowadays. And wonder why they can’t find happiness.

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  90. Congratulations dear-heart! Not only for the SAG honor but for the openness you have to find God where-ever you go, and whom-ever you’re with!! Hugs & continued Blessings.

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  92. Great post and congrats on your acceptance into SAG. You deserve it. Also, can I just say that I am LOVING the new theme? I thought I’d come to the wrong blog at first, but it’s lovely. Take care 🙂

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  93. Caralyn: Happy Easter!

    Love the new look…Having worked in a medicare hospital, I understand why old people can grow on you, if you let them…I am buried in editing my memoir and will be another two-three weeks.

    SWH

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  94. I absolutely LOVED this article! 🙂 I have a special place in my heart for older adults, and it sounds like God placed this kind gentleman in your path for a divine purpose. Congrats on the SAG letter! I pray that God will keep showing you your path. Keep loving Him and others, and He’ll do the rest.

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  96. This is funny. My wife and I have a saying, “Old chicks dig me!” Because I have a deeper and louder voice, all the ladies in the assisted care facility with my MIL can hear me. Plus I listen and respond to them. I usually have them giggling by the time I leave.

    My biggest fear is getting old and feeble. This guy shows there is hope! Grab life lady, enjoy it all, and challenge yourself. Then when you are 90 (and still cute!) you will have stories to share with a 20 something 🙂

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  97. Hi BBB,

    Those Jesus moments are awesome. You took away the nugget from it. Thanks for passing that moment on for the rest of us to appreciate and not miss when it comes our way. You gave your time to someone who needed it as much as you needed to hear it. Have a blessed NY day from CA,

    Gary

    On Thu, Apr 13, 2017 at 3:59 PM, BeautyBeyondBones wrote:

    > beautybeyondbones posted: “I’m going to say something and I really hope it > doesn’t come off as insensitive….But… Old people love me. Hear me out. > First of all, I’m not talking about people who are 50 or 60…because > hey…that’s young! I’m talking 90s. OLD. But I’m going to” >

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  98. Dear friend,,

    Well, we have to learn our lessons in this world – the more we learn the better we know ourselves. We ourselves
    are like an unknown country which needs to be discovered. We see us even change from year to year in our meanings (as you have changed too) – it is a journey going inwardly. There, we can grab treasures in finding and discovering ourselves. Money, material things are not so much of value (actually of no value at all – because when we leave this world we cannot take anything with us, no money, no houses, no boats, no diamonds etc.) – the inner values is what counts. And to go and see the world means also, to see oneself in the mirror of the world – everything which comes from the world is a kind of reflection of our own inner world. There, the old man belongs too, your family, your friends, all people around you and each of them is unique to bring you a missing puzzle to yourself, to come with a hidden message… We are like a scattered puzzle and we need to pick all the fragments to understand who we really are. However, we should know that we are not from this world – our true home is in the lap of our Father. Although we are in this world, but we are not from this world. And so the world is a mirror, a huge gate to ourselves, to get to know ourselves. The world is like a vast pottery – when a pot is ready, then it can return to our Eternal Home. Nothing happens by chance, there is always a hidden meaning behind when we come across people, experiences, new events. All is there to give us opportunities to become more and more conscious and to get a deeper understand – who we are…

    Thanks for sharing and I have also noticed your new design of your page – which looks very nice 🙂

    Hugs
    Didi

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  99. Congratulations!! Wow, what a victory getting that SAG card! 👏🏼😄

    I have so much to say, I don’t know where to start! I always love reading your blogs–you’re such an encouragement! I suppose I have two thoughts on my heart:
    1. I’m graduating college in three weeks and recently had to choose between two career-molding job opportunities. (Obviously, a great problem to have!) I was struggling to figure out which choice was God’s will, but ultimately realized that they both were. His will for me was that I would walk in His love and serve others, whichever job I chose! No matter what you decide, make the decision in peace knowing that God is still God and you are still his princess no matter how you choose to serve Him. 🙂
    2. I recently wrote a paper about William Wilberforce (see it in an upcoming blog post!) and I was fascinated by his salvation story and subsequent career dilemma. Before he came to Christ, he experienced incredible success in British politics, quickly becoming one of their youngest rising stars and a close friend with Pitt, the prime minister. He was in a position with plenty of power and influence and he was proud of it. Unfortunately, his only purpose in life was to maintain and grow that power. He had no higher calling on his life.
    Enter Christ’s saving grace. Wilberforce struggled between his obvious need for that grace and the idea of giving up his political ambitions. John Newton and John Wesley both encouraged him by proposing that perhaps God had “raised [him] up for the good of the nation.” That his political successes were not his own doing, but God’s guiding hand setting him up to do his will. He wrote later that he felt a new calling–“to champion the liberty of the oppressed.”
    We all know in hindsight how that calling turned out: the abolition of slavery in England.
    Your post made me think back to that paper and I felt like I should share his story. I would really recommend the article “A Man Who Changed His Times” by John Pollack (I found it in the book Character Counts) if you want to read more about it!

    Essentially, whatever you decide, God’s got you. Your story is one, brilliant thread in his tapestry of grace!
    God bless you, girl. Go keep rockin’ this world. 🙂

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    • Enter Christ’s saving grace! How perfectly that sums it up. Thanks so much for your kind words, Christy! Congrats on graduating! that is so exciting and I know that God is going to put you right where He wants you 🙂 I will definitely pray as you journey forward into the next chapter. how exciting 🙂 Thanks again. can’t wait to read that post! hugs xo

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  102. Loved loved LOVED reading this post. Amazing wisdom that elderly man gave you 🙂 haha, I can very much relate to you with the New Yorker mentality! I, too, am a native New Yorker… that need to get to your destination w no distraction is like in our blood! Anyways, I really enjoyed the read!

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  103. Congratulations on the SAG! Wow! Yes, definitely something to write home about. 🙂 And guess what, who says you can have SAG/NYC/acting and LOVE/family/home at the same time. They’re just two things and not the whole world so grab both. Also, when we end up with the Porsche, it’s not because we wanted that in the first place, it just automatically comes when you work on the right thing. *wink*. Much love and hugs. xxx

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  104. Congrats on your SAC, With Jesus in you heart He will lead and direct you in the way to go, Where ever your life leads you, He will light the way and you will be a light to others, as you are now. That was a beautiful account in your story,

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  106. Lovely story — and well done on the SAG. 🙂
    Haha well I have no idea what old people think of me(!) but I actually also know a 91-year-old: likewise a World War II veteran (British); he’s not poetic, but every time we speak he inspires me with his optimism and joie de vivre… which just goes to underline the fact that inspiration is not just the province of the young. 🙂

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  108. Ah B3, at first I was offended for being old, but then you qualified me as young, so it was all better. Why do elderly talk to you? It is because of your eyes announce that you are a nice person. The eyes are truly the window to one’s soul. When I see your photo, I can tell you are someone I can speak to and you’ll actually listen to what is being said. That in itself to the elderly and us who are still young as you put it, is something to cherish.

    Keep helping your parents, listening to people and being you!

    R. I.

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    • Haha yeah, definitely. And I am also of the belief that you’re as old/young as you feel! 👏👏👏gosh, what a kind thing to say. Thank you. You’re a blessing to me! Hugs and love xox

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  109. Oh, I forgot to add Proverbs 2:1-5

    My son, if you receive my words
    and treasure up my commandments with you,

    making your ear attentive to wisdom
    and inclining your heart to understanding;

    yes, if you call out for insight
    and raise your voice for understanding,

    if you seek it like silver
    and search for it as for hidden treasures,

    then you will understand the fear of the Lord
    and find the knowledge of God.

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  112. I just finished writting about what the world cannot really give. This blog is helpful. Thanks for sharing another perspective on what the world should look like, loving your family, friends, and above all Jesus. 🙂

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  114. Yeah – I know what you mean about slow walkers/talkers. I’m from Toronto up in here in Canada. We’re like the NYC of Canada. Our city, perhaps on a smaller scale than NYC (by far I would imagine), has an on-going energy. People who move here say it’s incredible!

    But the masters (I like to call seniors, masters, because they have mastered through stages of life we have yet to even enter – I figure they earned that title! LOL!) can sometimes have some great words of wisdom.

    That photo of you by the bookshelf – is that a glass of wine I spot to your left? Nice!

    Reply

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