In conversation with my wife today after a day of skiing I related to her a summary of many encounters with people on the lift rides. Normally I am riding with a couple of buddies but today was essentially a solo day for me. Thus I had a chance to chat with a lot on new people. I often laugh with my wife about the six minute interviews I do with my new companions, the approximate lift ride time. This leads to the revelation that both my main summer and winter activities expose me to a multitude of life stories! Winter on the lift is the one venue and being a guide docent at a local museum is the other venue for people sharing their life stories one way or another. It is a wonderful gift to me to hear a tremendous variety of experiences of people all over the United State and even the world.
As a skier now approaching his 91st birthday I am considered somewhat harmless and people seem happy to open up to me. With a few strategic questions the new companions open up to me almost as if I am a counselor! Often the skiers wonder at my longevity on the slopes and ask me what my "secret" is. Truthfully there is no secret except to remind everyone that much of it is unexpected good fortune plus having physical and social activities. Everyone you might encounter has an enriching life story to tell if you are a good listener. This will enrich your life and give you a broad perspective of what it is to journey through this life on earth.
To my readers, I wish you great opportunities to hear a multitude of life stories from the strangers that you encounter. Just listening can be entertaining and sometime healing for both of you. Each day is an adventure on the slopes both in the social and physical sense. Savor it since no one knows what the next day will bring.
