57 years, countless lessons, and a heart full of gratitude. 🤍

As I celebrated another trip around the sun, I spent some time reflecting on the truths that have anchored me, humbled me, and brought me real peace over the years. If I could pass along just a few pieces of wisdom to my younger self—or to anyone else who needs them—here are some of my life lessons at 57:

Life will be hard. Seek God first. He is not the author of confusion, chaos, or lies. If you are dealing with any of those right now, you can trust Him to guide you through it. Do not be led by your every emotion. He will provide the wisdom necessary for the proper interpretation of reality when things are cloudy.

The morning sky in South Africa

Not everything deserves your energy. Protecting your emotional, mental, and physical bandwidth isn’t selfish. Your capacity has limits and it needs replenishment. The body truly does keep the score. Rest before your body or mind forces you to.

Control is an illusion that steals your peace. Trying to control outcomes, opinions, and other people is exhausting for you and stressful for everyone around you. Let go of what isn’t yours to manage, and give those you love the space to be themselves.

An apartment in Montreux

True friendship is rare and precious. It isn’t measured by how close you live or how often you talk, but by mutual trust, depth, and the rare gift of people who celebrate your joy as sincerely as they lighten your grief. I am blessed.

One of my favorite vintage photos.

Genuine kindness is never amiss, but examine your intent. Real kindness is a strong, intentional choice. It should never be confused with people-pleasing, performance, or emotional manipulation.

Discretion and prudence bring peace. Not everyone earns up-close access to your life. Over-explaining is an unnecessary drain on your spirit; learn to let your “yes” be “yes,” your “no” be “no,” and your privacy remain sacred. Private life. Peaceful mind.

Working on an island in the Adriatic

Take care of your body—you’re going to need it. Muscle, movement, heart, and brain health are the true currency we need for a life of quality not just longevity as we age. Honor the vessel you’ve been given, and remember: it is never too late to start.

Invest in experiences over things. Create the moments, take the trips, embrace spontaneity. When you take photos, don’t just capture a record of the event—capture the feeling. It most certainly won’t always work out as planned- learn to adapt, overcome…..and laugh.

Setting a beautiful table for a regular weeknight dinner at our villa.

You can rewire your brain at any age. Discipline yourself to notice your inner narrative. Reframing negative self-talk is one of the greatest acts of stewardship you can offer yourself and the people you love.

Don’t build walls, build bridges with gates. Healthy boundaries aren’t meant to shut people out. They are clear paths that allow true connection and friendship to survive in spite of our differences.

An ancient village near our home, where I walked every day.

Learn the gift of being alone. Seek the joy in peaceful solitude. Time alone with your thoughts isn’t isolation—it’s an invitation to pray, reflect, and cultivate the peace that guards your mind.

Cozy evening by the wood stove in a 200 year old stone house

I guess I had some things to say. Did any of these resonate today? Do you have anything that you’d add to my life lessons at 57 ? I’d love to hear in the comments. 👇

You may also like this post on Why can’t we rest? or this one with Thoughts on Slow Living or this one on My Morning Routine Over 50- No Matter Where I Live .