A powerful lesson from my 105 year old grandpa.

Today, I want to share a personal story that is close to my heart and has deeply influenced my outlook on life and the potential power of one’s word.

My grandfather was an extraordinary man, someone I looked up to and learned invaluable lessons from. He embodied the power of word like no other person I’ve known. For him, a handshake was as good as a signed contract, and when he made a promise, he made sure to keep it.

At the age of 92, when doctors suggested he was too old for surgery due to blockages in his heart, we refused to accept that verdict. Knowing his strength and resilience, we sought a second opinion in New York City, where a brave surgeon agreed to perform open-heart surgery on him. To everyone’s amazement, he bounced back within weeks, defying all odds. AND WENT BACK TO WORK!

His determination and unwavering commitment to his word didn’t stop there. On his 100th birthday, surrounded by loved ones, he boldly declared that he would see us all again on his 105th birthday. We took his words as law, for in our eyes, his word was “reliable”.

At his 105th Birthday Party

As years passed, and he retired at 103, challenges arose. Yet, he faced them with the same tenacity and spirit. When doubts crept in, I challenged him, asking for his word that he would make it to 105 before planning another celebration. With a determined look, he gave me his word.

Months later, as his health declined, I rushed to his side after he had stopped eating for a few days and hospice care had showed up. Seeing him in that state and realizing that I had been holding him to a promise more for my sake than his. In a heartfelt conversation, I released him from that promise, allowing him to choose his path with dignity and autonomy. I said to him, “I release you from your promise, but this is going to go how YOU say because everything does, and right now you are not saying you are waiting.  I will back whatever you say but you need to say.

Remarkably, he looked at the boiled egg on the table next to him then looked at me, then at the egg and after a small gesture of sharing a boiled egg, his strength returned, and he defied expectations once again. Hospice left, and within one week we were enjoying dinner at his favorite restaurant.

On his 105th birthday, surrounded by his family and friends including his great grandchildren, he toasted to life, family, and the power of keeping one’s word. A few months later, as he “said”, he peacefully passed away in his favorite chair, leaving behind a legacy of honor, integrity, and the power of word.

His life continues to inspire me daily. It’s not about circumstances or external factors but about staying true to your word and authoring your own life story. As I carry on his legacy, I encourage you all to reflect on the power of your word and its ability to shape your reality.

Thank you, Grandpa, for teaching me one of life’s most profound lessons.

Wishing you all a week filled with vision, creation and the courage to be your word.