Que Sera, Sera...

I have a new friend!  I had the great privilege of meeting him on January 11, 2013, his 93rd birthday.  My friend's name is Harold, and the few moments I spent with him were heartwarming, and enlightening, and edifying, all rolled into one!

Though life says he is 93, Harold looks and acts like a man in his 70's.  He was out dancing with his girlfriend!  After just a brief few moments with him, I knew I'd never forget him.  He was kind enough to share some of his story...

He always wanted to marry a girl named Shirley.  He just really liked that name.  Imagine his delight when he walked into a dance and saw the most beautiful girl in the world, and her name was Shirley.  Harold proposed on their 3rd date, but at the time he was a private in the Army, making only $25 per month.  Once he was promoted to corporal (making $64 per month), Shirley accepted his proposal.  They were married for 61 years before she passed away.  Shirley continues to be the love of his life, and he still wears his wedding ring.

I mentioned to Harold that his happiness is infectious!  He replied, "There's a lot to be thankful for!  When something bad happens, there is always a positive. When I fell on my knee and broke it, I was so happy that I hadn't broken the other one too!"  (I could learn a lesson or two from this man on the art of contentment and appreciation...)

Harold shared that his mindset is, Que sera, sera!  Which as Doris Day taught us, means: Whatever will be, will be.  He believes there is no point in stress and worry all the time, and that we should just enjoy each day that we are given. 

The last jewel of wisdom that Harold blessed me with was this:  You're only as important as the importance you are to others.  Guess that makes Harold pretty darn important~

In Bliss & Grace, Shugie