What do you learn over 95 years of living? Ruth is an inspiring example of what we learn from our own experiences that we can pass on.
One interesting finding of the Legacy Project (described in the book 30 Lessons for Living) is that most elders did not endorse corporal punishment of children; Ruth tells you why. She also offers tips for a happy marriage.
Bob, 82, shared lots of wisdom with us from his long and varied experience as a husband, father, and successful executive. Here, he offers an important lesson for child-rearing: Treat each of your children as individuals, paying attention to their special interests and strengths.
Rick, 78, had clear views about child-rearing that may seem traditional to some, but made sense to many of the elders.
As we now observe our grandchildren’s progress, successes, and problems, we are more convinced than ever that firm family procedural rules are useful. Requiring regular family gatherings without tousled hair, bare feet, bare tops etc. for friendly exchanges and communication can be a crucial benefit to maturity. Having it at a planned, prepared evening meal makes it easy. And, as the years pass by, the regular gatherings with communication become enjoyable habits for all. For a variety of good reasons, our 5 children have been inconsistent in this regard in their own homes. But, we continue to believe that those who have enjoy a superior rapport with one another. It leads to happier lives, which we believe that is what we all seek.