You come across a variety of people when working with the public.  Some you encounter are extremely pleasant, while others leave a lot to be desired.  You never know what to expect!

I recall a gentleman who called the law firm back in December on behalf of his mother.  We set up an appointment with the attorney and had the paperwork prepared prior to their arrival.  At the scheduled time, a tall gentleman entered the office to make sure he was in the right place.  Once he was certain he had the right office, he stepped out into the hallway.  Shortly thereafter, a petite elderly lady, full of elegance and grace, appeared in our doorway.  Instantly, I was struck by her well groomed appearance and red suit she wore.  We offered her a seat while giving her son the paperwork. As I waited for the paperwork be completed, I attempted to make small talk while inquiring on her age.  I was quite surprised to learn she was 97 years old and making arrangements should she require the assistance of a nursing home later in life.

Now, this lady certainly did not look her age at all.  I watched in awe as she moved around the office as she left the lobby and entered the attorney’s office.  One would expect someone of that age to require assistance getting around.  She carried a cane but rarely used it.  Even her son had to remind her later to get the cane prior to exiting our office after their appointment was complete.  She was definitely independent and still lived alone.  I was dumbfounded!

Once their appointment was coming to an end, the attorney asked her the secret to her longevity.  She replied, with a laugh, “Aggravation.”  We laughed with her but never fully understood what she meant by that comment.  Did she mean aggravation from others, or did she mean she was the one causing the aggravation?  Later, we laughed at the thought of this perfectly poised lady causing trouble.

May we ALL be blessed to enjoy 97 or maybe even 100 years of life.