Instagram account @polleksandra user interviewed this sweet gentleman on the street back in 2023. Samuel was asked, "What life advice would you give people?" After a little laugh and a moment of reflection, he provided a few priceless pieces of guidance for us all.
Don’t Look Back on What Has Been
Samuel first advised that we ought not to look back on what has been. Instead, we should live in the present. He said, "Accept where you are at and move on. Try to be in the present." Both of those things can be difficult. Often, we worry about or regret the choices made along the way, and other times, we look ten steps down the road, wondering what will be. Living in the present is a challenge, but according to Samuel, doing so makes for a happier life.
Next, Samuel shared the importance of gratitude. We've heard about the mental and physical health benefits associated with expressing gratitude. In fact, Mayo Clinic Health System reported, "Studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity. Gratitude can decrease depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain, and risk of disease."
The kind look in Samuel's eyes seemed to reflect his next suggestion. He encouraged people to exercise compassion. Wouldn't the world be better if we all followed that giant bit of wisdom?
His Secret to a Happy Life Is Heartfelt
Samuel went on to share his thoughts about accepting one's circumstances. With gentle conviction, Samuel advised, "Accept what is. If you can change it, okay. But there are some things that you need to accept that you can't change. And if you can't change it, let it go."
Whether it took 96 years for Samuel to figure out these wonderful truths or whether he arrived at these conclusions later in life, he shared heartfelt and thoughtful advice for all of us. Samuel's last statement on the video was simply this, "Be who you are, and people will like you."
No doubt, many, many people loved this remarkable man! Samuel passed away recently, but his words may very well impact future generations.
"Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?" Job 12:12
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This content originally appeared on GodUpdates.com; used with permission.
Photo Credit: ©Instagram/polleksandra