“Life is measured not by the years we collect, but by the lives we touch.”
This August marks a milestone birthday for me. I turn 60 years old.
Even writing those words feels a little surreal. Like many, I still feel younger than the number suggests. Of course, I realize that to many CHEERful Living readers, 60 may sound quite young. Many of you reached that milestone years ago and continue to inspire others through your wisdom, resilience, and active involvement in your communities. Still, reaching this point in life has given me an opportunity to reflect on where I have been, what I have learned, and what matters most moving forward.
I joined CHEER (known then as Sussex County Senior Services, Inc.) when I was 27 years old. At the time, I could never have imagined that more than three decades later I would still be part of this incredible organization and community. At that time, 60 seemed like a life-time away. Today, I find myself smiling at the realization that I am finally eligible for even more of the services CHEER provides. Life certainly has a way of coming full circle.
As I look back on the past three decades, I do not think first about budgets, buildings, projects, or job titles. What I remember most are the people. The friendships. The conversations. The volunteers who generously gave their
time. The staff who dedicated themselves to helping others. The participants whose stories, humor, and life experiences have enriched my own life more than they will ever know. Those experiences have taught me that life is not measured by accomplishments alone. It is measured by relationships, shared experiences, and the positive impact we have on one another.
One lesson that has remained constant throughout my life is the importance of serving others. Whether through our work, our families, our neighborhoods, or our friendships, we all have opportunities every day to make someone feel welcomed, valued, and included. Sometimes the smallest acts of kindness leave the greatest impression.
That belief has shaped much of my life and continues to guide me today. I want people to feel comfortable. I want them to know they belong. I want them to feel they are part of something meaningful, something that benefits not only them-
selves, but others as well. While reflection is important, I have always believed we should spend just as much time looking ahead. The past provides lessons and perspective, but the future is where opportunity lives. Whether we are 60, 70, 80, or beyond, there are always new ways to grow, contribute, and make a difference.
That philosophy continues to guide CHEER. Every day, I see opportunities to improve services, expand programs, strengthen our community, and help more people maintain their independence and quality of life. The future of CHEER is bright because of the people who make it possible. To you, I say, “thank you.”
As I celebrate turning 60, I find myself feeling grateful more than anything else – grateful for the opportunities I have been given, the people I have met, and the chance to be part of an organization whose mission truly changes lives.
The journey to 60 has been remarkable, but I am even more excited about what lies ahead and what we can continue to accomplish together. Now, let’s have some cake!
Staying Cool, Staying Connected