Yesterday our fair city lost one of its top citizens. A friend of my Dad’s and an acquaintance of mine, he passed away at the age of 87.

A Life Well Lived

He has long been one of the most influential and prominent people in our city. He was generous with his time and money. He has left a legacy that includes a four amazing children and one of the city’s best businesses: a network of automotive dealerships, a massive real estate company, and the company that brought back our beloved NHL hockey team.

In yesterday’s newspaper ran a story honouring his life. One of the interesting details was a habit he cultivated over the years.

“He started every day by reviewing his 12 precepts, including: “The winners in this world are those that give”; “You cannot be too generous in praise of others”; “Business success involves considered risk”; “Thoughtfulness is a core quality for personal success”; “The daily pursuit of knowledge is important”; and “A warm smile is a valuable attribute.”

The one precept that caught my eye was:

“Good health requires commitment. Wanting good health needs to convert to a program – a program that probably won’t be easy and requires discipline.

Eating the right food, exercising daily, running, walking, cycling, etc. It also includes a curious active and positive mindset. As you grow older – you genuinely succeed to the rewards of taking care of yourself.”

Great advice from a great man.

Like success in business, in relationships, or any other endeavour, success in anti-aging isn’t easy. If it was, everyone would be doing it.

Good health and anti-aging requires good, lifelong habits, discipline, and yes — a program to ensure you do everything possible to live a long, quality life.

We can all learn from the lessons taught by a life well lived.