Working as a therapist, I'm fortunate to come across people in all stages of life.  Some of the best  people are over the age of 85.  The countless number of stories and adventures they can tell will sometimes boggle the mind. 
      A woman who is one of the most amazing of all, is 99 years old.  I am lucky enough to spend time with her and hear of her life.  The 1930's, 40's, 50's...she can tell you things you wouldn't believe with a gleam in her eye and a smile through her memories.  She's as sharp as a tack.
      Yesterday, I asked her what the secret to living almost 100 years is.  (She'll be 100 in a few months.)
      Taking my hand, she rubbed the back of my arm.  Looking right into my eyes, she leaned forward and said..."Hard work".  (What?)  That's not exactly what I expected.  I was counting on her answer to be "Faith, love, happiness, friends and family..."  Nope.  She said..."Hard work." 
     A little taken back, I asked her to explain.
     "Honey, I've worked hard my whole life.  I grew up on a farm.  I have never been afraid to do work and I believe that's the secret.  The day you decide to stop moving or stop being active, is the day that it's all downhill from there." 
      I smiled and squeezed her hand.  It's a good lesson learned I guess.  You sure can't argue with the woman since she could probably take out half of the 80 year olds in the facility.  
      I got home last night and thought a little more about what she said.  We try to raise the kids with all of the important things in life.  It was a gentle reminder to me that not only faith, love, family and friends are what really matter.  A good outlook on a solid work ethic, no matter what the job may be...might just be what the doctor ordered.