KB94 - A Teddy That Was Loved

MINDSET
A Teddy That Was Loved

Both of these teddies are the same age.

The teddy on the left has been by a little girl’s side since she was one, never leaving her through childhood and into her teenage years.

She took it everywhere, and every night, it was there for a big squeeze before she could fall asleep.

Over the last decade, the teddy has been lovingly patched up whenever it tore, surviving every journey, every suitcase, and every overnight stay.

It’s been through a lifetime of adventure!

The teddy on the right?

It was given as a similar gift for a first birthday but was carefully preserved on a shelf.

It’s barely been touched, tucked away in storage, and now sits flawlessly in the attic. Its value as a collector’s item has grown tenfold.

So why am I telling you this?

As we age, we often seek ways to preserve our youthful appearance, trying to stay flawless like the teddy on the shelf.

But in doing so, we sometimes forget to live fully, to love deeply, and to embrace the wear and tear that comes with a life well-lived.

There are things far more important than looking perfect in the mirror.

True aging gracefully means..

• Staying Physically Healthy: Like the teddy that travelled through every suitcase and weathered every tear, our bodies need care and attention through activity, movement, and nutrition. Staying active keeps us capable of fully participating in life’s adventures.

• Maintaining Strong Relationships: The love and connections we nurture over the years. Just like the little girl’s bond with her teddy is what makes life meaningful. Don’t sit on the shelf; invest in the people who matter to you.

• Keeping a Sharp Mind: Just as life’s experiences add richness to the teddy’s well-worn seams, every challenge, lesson, and new skill keeps our minds sharp and curious. Engage your mind through learning, creativity, and exploration to keep it firing on all cylinders.

While looking good on the outside can make us feel better inside, it’s the inner joy and confidence that truly radiates outward to those who matter most.