This week we celebrated my grandpa’s 96th birthday. He still lives alone, drives, tends to his shopping needs, and has his mental faculties. Oh, and most of all, his sense of humor.

My mom asked all of us to write him a letter telling him what he means to us and share special memories from over the years. I had no idea how emotional I would get as we all shared our letters. My grandpa lived a truly exceptional life and encouraged all those he loved to do the same.

When I asked the boys to share their memories of time with Granny and Papa, the things they remembered were nothing like the ones I remembered. But then again, the memories I made with them pale in comparison to the ones my mom and aunt have with them. Humorous poems, an adventurous spirit, level-headed decision making, respect for all people; my papa not only lived 96 years, but he also had life during his 96 years.

He was a career Navy man and then had another career as a chiropractor in his hometown after retiring from the military. He visited dozens of states and countries and brought along family while he traveled. No one could play practical jokes like Papa, nor did they have the sense of humor he wielded on a regular occasion. Smart, caring, witty, inclusive, fun, and intelligent; all of these make for a winning combination.

 I thought about all the financial talks he gave us over the years and wisdom he passed on from the school of hard knocks. I remembered the trips he took me and my brother on during the summers, and all the fabulous memories made when we spent the weekends during the school year. So many of my memories include my grandparents.

My grandpa has filled his 96 years well. His moments mattered. And so did every bit of effort he expelled. He loved my grandmother well, even until her final days, sitting with her in the nursing home for hours a day. He loved his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids well too.

The best part is that my papa is still alive and can continue living his best life as long as God allows breath in his lungs. And he can know that one day, when his final breath does come, that he left a legacy for those he loved. We know how to live life to the fullest because he showed us. We know how to use our brain to make common sense decisions because he taught us. And we know how to love big and love well because he modeled it. 

If I make it to 96, I hope I’ve lived half the life my papa has lived.

What are we doing to leave a legacy for the ones we will one day leave behind?