You're Never Too Old To Have Heroes

As long as they aren't put on pedestals, heroes can be powerful ... they help us develop a vision for our lives and provide us with examples of ways to think and act that will help us achieve that vision.

One of my heroes is Dr. Ellsworth Wareham, who celebrated his 104th birthday in October. When I decided to take responsibility for my own health and vitality, Dr. Wareham's example, and the examples of others like him, were a major influence on me.

As a heart surgeon, Dr. Wareham worked till he was 95 performing surgeries to give those experiencing chronic cardiovascular disease a chance to survive and perhaps even make changes to become more healthy and prevent recurring episodes.

Some of the reasons Dr. Wareham is one of my heroes:

• He retired from surgery at 95 ... by choice not necessity.

• He didn't begin eating an entirely plant-based diet till he was in his 50s.

• His Christianity is evident in his heart of service and focus on what he can control.

• He continues to be active and serve others by teaching about health and wellness.

• He's still got a razor sharp mind at north of 100.

• He still drives and does his own lawn.

For those who may be thinking that Dr. Wareham just won the "genetic lottery," I hate to disappoint you but, ....

1) He has now outlived his parents' ages at death by a long shot.

2) 3 of his grandparents died at 72.

3) His genetics wouldn't explain why his hometown of Loma Linda, California - with the highest percentage of vegans of any town in the USA - is also the nation's only "BLUE ZONE" (regions where people live much longer than average).

What makes Dr. Wareham a great hero and role model in my eyes is that he isn't an outlier. He's not the buff, 100 year old triathlete. He never spent copious hours in the gym or built his life around his physical prowess or looks. He simply stewarded his body as he believed he should and chose to invest his life in the betterment of others. In doing so, he has been able to bless others with his wisdom and care FAR longer than most ever did.

Will I live (and live well) past 100? I have no idea. God willing, Jody and I will both be around and sharp enough to celebrate our 75th wedding anniversary when we're in our late 90s. But, whether we live that long or not, I know that by choosing to "Seek First the Kingdom of God" in my own health - I'll live a whole lot better for whatever amount of years I have left. It seems to me, that's a great and achievable goal for anyone!