Today I observed an intriguing incident at a restaurant over lunch.
A grandmother entered the restaurant with her daughter’s family including 2 young children. She sat down at the table next to me first and ordered a slice of apple pie with extra vanilla ice cream on it. She told the waitress that it was her very favorite. She then proceeded to eat it with a childlike eagerness when her food arrived before other family members ordered their food.
I recalled some people told me that when people get older (probably into their retirement), they sometimes behave like children. I have no intention of picking on more mature people (we are all heading in that direction). I wonder if we let go our inhibition and be more carefree, we may be able to learn faster like children do.

There are multiple occasions in my life that I wish I did not open my not-so-small mouth and say something that I regretted later. In retrospect, sometimes it is better to “take the fifth” and make no comments on the spot. Alternatively, saying “let me get back to you” or requesting for more time to reply may be considered as well. Just remember sometimes (not always) that silence is the best answer at that moment.

Recently a few people have moaned to me about it is so cold in London. As much as I dislike coldness, I reminded them that it is still February, in the winter season and this is what should be expected. Hello?

It goes to show having unrealistic expectations in life can cause unnecessary pain and suffering.

Well, please don’t complain to me about the cold weather before Easter. I don’t want to hear it or else….

Receptiveness and openness
I think I’d better speak for myself on this before I offend people of my age group. I recall when I was younger, I used to be more receptive and open to new ideas and opinions from others than now. Perhaps it is what people say “starting with a clean slate” when one is young. I think it is important to re-apply that “clean-slate” mentality to start (before dismissing others straight away), then add our experience to help us reach the final decision/conclusion.

Fearlessness is often associated with young people who dare to try new and different ideas in life. That is a valuable attribute to have if applied in the right way. I am not referring to recklessness implying a certain degree of irresponsibility and immaturity. I am referring to the courage and determination to try something different.

Nothing can replace the old-fashioned hard work. No matter how hard you worked in the past, there is no slacking regardless of your age. “Been there, done that” does not apply in this case.
Come on, roll up your sleeves and get to work.

Creativity is often associated with the younger generation. However, it is not necessary the case. More mature people can also be creative. We were once young (not so long ago!). Many famous artists remained creative to the very end of their lives such as Henri Matisse and Claude Monet. Go ahead and flex your creative muscles – Young and mature alike :>

Dear all,
In the year of Monkey,
May you and your family be healthy and lucky;
Bestowed with love and prosperity;
Filled with joy and security.

Having inspiration is very important regardless of one’s age. We all need something to aim for and look forward to. Inspiration is not exclusive to the younger generation. Everyone should dare to dream and go after their dreams. It is not only speed of reaching the goal that matters. The process and destination are also crucial.

The third element on this topic is adoptability and flexibility. In general, more mature people are more set in their way and thus usually come across as inflexible and difficult. However, it needs not to be the case. Adoptability is crucial in the modern society which changes are inevitable.