The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
Andy Rooney, television news commentator
In my work I have the honor of recording the stories of many elderly men and women. For me, Andy Rooney’s comment couldn’t be truer. I’ve learned much from the elderly. I’ve gained insight into the strength of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming loss. I’ve seen how perseverance can triumph over intransigence. I’ve been shown how hope can keep one going when all seems lost. And that at the end of our lives we count our richness not in the things that we surround ourselves with but in those who have loved us in the past and those who love us today.
Photo by Ellie Van Houtte
Categories: Life stories · Quotes
Tagged: elderly, learning, quotation, wisdom
Begin doing what you want to do now. We are not living in eternity. We have only this moment, sparkling like a star in our hand – and melting like a snowflake.
- Marie Beyon Ray
This quote is a powerful reminder that we need to act now to record and preserve our life stories. I meet people all the time who tell me that they fully intend to write their story but they’re too busy right now. Or I’m told that their mom’s story is fascinating but they can’t find the time to sit down and record it. Sadly, time slips away and before we know it the memories are lost forever.
Photo by François Rey
Categories: Life stories · Quotes
Tagged: life story, memoir, memories, now, quotation
