103-Year-Old's Final Message Before She Died - Ask Yourself This One Question To Find True Purpose

In this podcast episode, the host speaks with Gladys McGarey, a remarkable 103-year-old physician and author, who shares her profound insights on purpose, love, and the essence of life. Throughout the discussion, Gladys emphasizes the importance of perspective, the healing power of love, and the necessity of finding joy in every moment.

The Importance of Purpose

Gladys begins by discussing the significance of purpose in our lives. She believes that everyone is here for a reason, and that understanding this reason is crucial for personal fulfillment. Many people, especially those in midlife, often feel lost or stuck in their routines, focusing solely on their jobs and responsibilities. Gladys encourages listeners to explore their curiosities and passions, as these can lead to discovering their true purpose. She emphasizes that purpose is not a fixed destination but rather a journey that evolves over time.

Gladys shares her belief that children often have a clearer sense of purpose than adults. They are naturally curious and inquisitive, and their interests can provide clues to their purpose. However, societal pressures and parental expectations can stifle this curiosity, leading to an epidemic of adults who feel disconnected from their true selves. She urges listeners to reconnect with their inner child and to seek out what makes them feel alive and fulfilled.

Finding Your Juice

In her book, Gladys introduces the concept of "finding your juice," which refers to discovering what brings you joy and vitality. She explains that many people become so entrenched in their daily routines that they forget to seek out the things that make them feel excited and passionate. To find your juice, Gladys suggests taking a step back and reflecting on what truly resonates with you. This process requires introspection and a willingness to explore new interests and activities.

Gladys also highlights the importance of movement in this journey. She believes that life must flow and that stagnation can lead to feelings of despair. By actively seeking out experiences that bring joy, individuals can reignite their passion for life. She encourages listeners to embrace change and to be open to new opportunities, as these can lead to a deeper understanding of their purpose.

Moving Towards Life

The conversation shifts to the idea of "moving towards life," a central philosophy in Gladys's teachings. She explains that this perspective involves actively seeking out experiences that promote growth and vitality. For many, this means reevaluating their current situations and making conscious choices to pursue what truly matters to them. Gladys emphasizes that life is a dynamic process, and it is essential to keep moving forward, even in the face of challenges.

Gladys acknowledges that many people feel stuck in their lives, particularly in their jobs. She encourages individuals to reframe their perspectives and to find purpose in their current circumstances. For example, a parent working a mundane job may find fulfillment in knowing that their work supports their family. By shifting the focus from the job itself to the impact it has on loved ones, individuals can cultivate a sense of purpose and meaning in their daily lives.

The Role of Perspective

Throughout the podcast, Gladys emphasizes the power of perspective in shaping our experiences. She believes that individuals have the ability to choose how they view their circumstances, and this choice can significantly impact their overall well-being. By adopting a positive perspective, individuals can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. Gladys encourages listeners to practice gratitude and to focus on the positives in their lives, as this can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment.

Gladys shares her own experiences with perspective, recounting moments in her life where she had to choose how to respond to adversity. She believes that by reframing negative experiences and finding the lessons within them, individuals can cultivate resilience and strength. This shift in perspective is essential for personal growth and can lead to a more fulfilling life.

The Healing Power of Love

A recurring theme in Gladys's message is the healing power of love. She believes that love is the foundation of a good life and that it has the ability to heal both physical and emotional wounds. Gladys emphasizes that love is not just a feeling but an active choice that individuals can make every day. By choosing to love ourselves and others, we can create a more compassionate and supportive environment.

Gladys shares her belief that love is essential for healing, both in personal relationships and in the medical field. She encourages healthcare professionals to approach their patients with love and compassion, as this can significantly impact the healing process. By fostering a loving environment, individuals can create a sense of safety and trust, which is crucial for emotional and physical well-being.

The Importance of Laughter

Laughter is another vital aspect of Gladys's philosophy. She believes that humor can be a powerful tool for coping with life's challenges. By finding joy and laughter in everyday situations, individuals can cultivate a more positive outlook on life. Gladys shares her own experiences with humor, recounting moments where laughter helped her navigate difficult times.

Gladys encourages listeners to embrace laughter as a means of connecting with others and fostering a sense of community. She believes that humor can bridge gaps between people and create a shared experience of joy. By incorporating laughter into our daily lives, we can enhance our overall well-being and create a more positive environment for ourselves and those around us.

The Role of Labor

Gladys discusses the concept of labor and its relationship to purpose. She believes that work can be a source of fulfillment when approached with love and passion. However, many people view work as a burden, leading to feelings of resentment and dissatisfaction. Gladys encourages individuals to find meaning in their work and to approach it with a sense of purpose.

She emphasizes that labor should not be seen as a chore but rather as an opportunity for growth and contribution. By aligning our work with our values and passions, we can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Gladys believes that when we approach our labor with love, it can become a source of joy and satisfaction.

The Power of Listening

Listening is another essential aspect of Gladys's teachings. She believes that true listening involves empathy and understanding. By actively listening to others, we can create deeper connections and foster a sense of community. Gladys encourages individuals to practice active listening, as this can lead to greater understanding and compassion.

Gladys shares her experiences as a physician, highlighting the importance of listening to patients. She believes that by truly hearing what patients have to say, healthcare professionals can provide better care and support. Listening with love allows us to connect with others on a deeper level and can lead to transformative experiences.

The Journey of Aging

As a centenarian, Gladys offers a unique perspective on aging. She believes that aging should be viewed as a journey of growth and discovery rather than a decline. Gladys emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and embracing the changes that come with age. She encourages individuals to focus on what they can still do rather than what they can no longer accomplish.

Gladys shares her own experiences with aging, highlighting the lessons she has learned along the way. She believes that each stage of life offers new opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By embracing the aging process and maintaining a sense of curiosity, individuals can continue to thrive and find purpose in their later years.

The Impact of Regrets

Gladys addresses the topic of regrets and their impact on our lives. She believes that holding onto regrets can hinder personal growth and prevent individuals from fully embracing the present. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes, Gladys encourages listeners to learn from their experiences and to focus on the lessons they can take away.

She emphasizes that it is never too late to change course and to pursue a life aligned with one's true purpose. By letting go of regrets and embracing the present, individuals can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life. Gladys believes that the key to overcoming regrets lies in self-compassion and the willingness to learn and grow.

The Legacy of Love

In closing, Gladys reflects on the legacy she hopes to leave behind. She emphasizes that love is the greatest healer and that it is essential for creating a meaningful life. Gladys encourages individuals to cultivate love in their relationships and to share it with others. By fostering a culture of love and compassion, we can create a better world for future generations.

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