Film: Lives Well Lived

A Documentary Exploring How Today's Older Adults are Making the Most Out of Their Later Years

Last weekend I went to a screening of Lives Well Lived at the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. The film looks at the lives of older adults from different walks of life and backgrounds.

The people interviewed shared their life stories and the lessons they've learned along the way. There's a mix of shared experiences (many lived and struggled through World War II) and unique upbringings that ultimately taught them the lessons by which they live today.

I noticed some common themes among the insights included in the film. When asked about the most important things in life...or the things that have made their lives richer and challenges easier to overcome, the following seemed to be mentioned the most often:

• Never stop learning
• Do what you're passionate about
• Surround yourself with family and friends
• Appreciate the wisdom you gain from growing older

The film has plenty of moments that tugged at the heartstrings. But more than anything, it's an inspirational look at the aging process and what we can do to enhance the quality of our lives as we move into our later years.

Let's face it, we all grow older...but many people seem to lament that fact. They look at aging as inevitable decline. They comment about how they're "too old" to do this or that.

Lives Well Lived shows us that—although it is unavoidable—aging is something to be celebrated. With the right mindset (no matter how difficult the challenges you've faced may have been), you can continue to create a life that you love.

More importantly, you can choose to share that and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.