Joyful Now: The Secrets of a 102-Year-Old Practicing Doctor
“Listening with love is understanding.” - Dr. Gladys McGarey
“There comes a point where it’s just not worth my energy to spend any more time on that. I’ve got the energy to do something that’s creative and pull myself out of that and work forward.”
In a world that often associates age with limitations, Dr. Gladys McGarey stands as a living testament to the power of embracing life with vitality and purpose, regardless of the years that have passed. Born just two years after the conclusion of the First World War, this remarkable woman is not only alive but thriving at the age of 102. As a consulting physician, she defies societal age stereotypes and offers us invaluable insights into living a life of fulfillment.
Dr. McGarey's journey has been one of resilience and determination. She has faced her share of challenges, including surviving cancer and navigating a difficult divorce at the age of 70. These experiences have shaped her understanding of the human capacity for resilience and the importance of not allowing suffering to define us. Instead, she encourages us to learn from adversity and grow stronger through life's trials.
One of the fundamental principles Dr. McGarey imparts is the importance of finding purpose and meaning. She challenges us to move beyond the question of "Who am I?" and instead ask, "Why am I here?" By focusing on the purpose of our existence and how we can create a positive impact on ourselves and others, we can lead lives that are truly fulfilling.
She advocates for tailoring our habits and preferences to our individual needs, rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. McGarey's emphasis on personalization echoes the sentiment that true fulfillment is found when we embrace what resonates with us on our unique journeys.
The centenarian encourages us to embrace all experiences as lessons. Her own transformative journey through divorce taught her the value of independence and the power of finding her voice. Her ability to extract wisdom from even the most challenging situations underscores the importance of continual learning and growth.
Facing challenges with a smile might sound simplistic, but it is a mindset that has served Dr. McGarey well throughout her life. She acknowledges that life is not always smooth sailing, but she actively chooses to move forward with positivity. Her wisdom teaches us that maintaining a positive attitude can help us navigate life's uncertainties with grace and resilience.
Dr. McGarey places great emphasis on sleep and dreams. With a commitment to nine hours of sleep and a belief in the significance of dreams, she shows us how to tap into our subconscious and use dreams as a guide to understanding our desires, fears, and aspirations. By actively engaging with our dreams, we unlock a wellspring of insight that can inform our decisions and facilitate personal growth.
Another key principle she highlights is the importance of movement—physical, mental, and spiritual. Dr. McGarey's concept of "juice," the life force within us, emphasizes the need to direct our energy toward our goals and desires. Her advice is a reminder that movement is essential for our overall well-being, contributing to our physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual alignment.
Her advice is beautifully encapsulated in the five essential L's: Life, Love, Laughter, Labor, and Listening. These pillars of wisdom underscore the importance of embracing life in all its facets, nurturing relationships, finding joy, contributing meaningfully, and truly engaging with others.
As Dr. Gladys McGarey's journey continues, her passion for "living medicine" shines brightly. Her vision for a village dedicated to holistic wellness speaks to her enduring commitment to helping others thrive. Even at 102, she approaches life with the same vigor she has exhibited throughout her remarkable journey, inspiring us all to live with purpose and passion.
In a world that often places limitations on what age can achieve, Dr. McGarey's story reminds us that age is indeed just a number. Her insights guide us toward a life filled with purpose, resilience, and boundless joy. So, as we navigate our own journeys, let us take a page from her book and embrace the wisdom that comes with a life well-lived.
Dr. McGarey’s book, ‘The Well-Lived Life: A 102-Year-Old Doctor’s Six Secrets to Health and Happiness at Every Age,’ pours out wisdom gained through decades of experience as a pioneer in holistic healing.
Love is infinite, it cannot be bound.
Love is in the air, it’s always around.
Love is the only language to know,
Love makes a friend out of a foe.
Love is in the mockeries of friends,
Love is a beginning that never ends.
Love is like the eternal flight of birds,
Love defies all attempts to be put in words.
— Kaushal Shah