5 Things I learnt from my 99 year old grandmother

The past couple of weeks have been emotional. We almost lost my 99 year old grandmother and my whole family rushed home to be with her. The lady knows how to pull a crowd. She miraculously pulled through, but while spending a week with her in hospital I learnt a few important life lessons.

There are so many practical things my grandmother could teach me about as she is such a strong, talented woman, but here are 5 things she unknowingly taught me last week.

1. Sometimes you know better than those in charge

There are times when others will tell you what they believe to be the right thing to do is, other times you will have blind faith in others' abilities to help. And then there are times when you should just ignore all others and do what you feel is right. You never know, it may just be the one little thing you do that makes all the difference.

2. Be honest, especially when that's the hardest thing to do

Taking the time to have an open and honest conversation - and really listen to what is being said either outright or hidden between the lines - is crucial to really knowing someone. Don't project your thoughts onto a conversation to the extent that you blur the real content.

3. Don't lose your sense of humour - ever

This one seems easy but is so hard in reality. Even when someone seems to have no reason to be joyful or have any energy left anymore, they will be able to laugh. And sometimes, that's all you can do to help them. A little giggle at a memory or a little tease will bring so much energy that it can pull you through the toughest times.

4. Children bring hope and life

Ever wondered why people continue to have babies in troubled times? It's because it brings so much hope, energy and love into people's hearts to tickle tiny babies' feet, hear their little coos/loud cries, smile at the sound of children singing and playing and it allows them to pin their hopes and dreams onto those little babes.

5. Quietness is underrated

We're so used to surrounding ourselves with others these days (whether online or in real life) that we have forgotten the art of just being. Quietly. By ourselves. We feel there should be something or someone there to fill the gap, drown out the quietness or entertain us. Yet, when it comes to being happy with yourself, being happy by yourself is the first step. No music, no TV, no internet. Just you, quietly, with your thoughts.

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