O is for Older Than Dirt

PT’s 91 Years of Wisdom

This year, I had a terrible time trying to figure out what my A-Z theme would be.  I finally decided that this year, I would honor my beloved 91 year old grandfather, Paul Titus, or PT as his friends called him, who passed away on February 8th.  He lived a wonderfully full life and was always trying to challenge my brothers and me to think out of the box.  So for this challenge I thought I would share little bits of his wisdom that he tried to bestow upon us.  

But I also want to highlight the wonderful bloggers in this community who have published their books.  So everyday, I will give a quick  shout out to those works with titles beginning with the letter of the day.  

Gramps surrounded by the people he guided

“The first 90 years are easy, it’s the second 90 that are difficult.”-Paul Titus

“Growin’ old ain’t for sissies.”- Paul Titus

Gramps had a “friend” who liked to joke that Gramps was so old he must be older than dirt, or dinosaurs.  I didn’t think he was much of a friend.  As usual Gramps laughed it off. He never let his age determine what he did.  He was still slalom water-skiing in his 70’s, deer hunting into his 80’s and at 89 he chopped down a dead tree in his yard.

It wasn’t until he turned 90, that he began to slow down.  His body wouldn’t allow him to do the things his brain still wanted to.  It frustrated him.  Often he would tell me, “The most important thing I do all day is the dishes.”  He felt like he could no longer contribute to the world.  

I tried to explain that the time he spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, guiding and loving them, was how he continued to make a difference.  His incredibly active mind could still teach the next generations so much.  He admitted I was right, but for a man who hated sitting down, it was a hard pill to swallow.  

            

In honor of Gramps, I would love it if everyone reading this today would make an older person in their life feel important.  Call them and listen, or ask their advice.  Let them know they are still around for a reason.  

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Now for the "O" title shout outs! There are a lot of them today.

Jade Hart

Michael Offut

Laura Bambrey

Susan Kaye Quinn

Jessica Therrien

Nick Wilford

Have an outstanding "O" day!  Check out all the other A-Zers here. 

Kathy :)