Lessons from My Mom Miyoko (1930–2016)

Mom, Dad, and Grandmother at Pike’s Peak, Colorado, in the 1950s

It’s amusing and comforting to realize that only one of these lessons (close the closet door) is something my mom specifically instructed me to practice. The rest I learned by her example. I don’t say grace but I give thanks, and contract bridge intimidates me.

• Rooms look tidier with the closet door closed.
• Stay curious: Learn a second language. Move to the country of that language. Go back to school. Teach some classes. Launch your own business. Be of service to your community and / or congregation. Stay informed by watching 60 Minutes and PBS Newshour. Practice a hobby you love, like singing in a choir, studying the stock market, playing serious contract bridge, and walking in the early morning with friends.
• Cooking with your family while chatting, saying grace at the table, then enjoying the meal together brings a cozy sense of security and purpose.
• Give thanks for your blessings out loud.
• Reading fiction is one of life’s great pleasures, especially in the late afternoon, in bed or on the couch, after a day’s work and before getting up to cook dinner.