Life Lessons from the Oldest & Wisest: Inspiration, Wisdom, and Humor for All Generations

by Dave Romanelli

Let wellness innovator “Yeah Dave” (featured in The New York Times and O, The Oprah Magazine) share the experience of our elders, a mix of history, wisdom, and joie de vivre , which is our most precious resource.

Elder Americans in their eighties, nineties, and even hundreds, have survived the Holocaust, endured the Great Depression, fought in World War II, lived through the Civil Rights Movement, and endured countless booms and busts. And yet, unlike other parts of the world where elders are respected and revered, so many American elders tend to be lonely and feel irrelevant, without a voice or presence in American culture.

The elders need our attention and love—and we need their stories and wisdom. The table of contents

Dave Romanelli is on a journey to meet and listen to the stories of Americans who have seen (and lived) it all! One person he met is a 103-year-old who began driving a horse and buggy, then a Model A Ford, and now a yellow Smart Car, who says, “The first hundred years were the hardest. Everything after that is a breeze.” Another new friend is a ninety-year-old who lost four grandparents, both parents, and three siblings in Auschwitz, and is a reminder to all of us to wake up and be grateful.

This is a small book that will have a powerful impact!

Genres: Nonfiction

192 pages, Hardcover

Published November 20, 2018

Reviews

[Jerecho · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great compilation of stories of the old and what we can learn from them. A good book. I always wonder how will I be treated when I grow old? But as the book say... Retire to something... And maybe that should I do.

As I read the book, I think I should not complain of problems nor my loneliness but instead put your mind to something positive... Love is everywhere is just that we have to look at it in a different way.

[Cathryn Wellner · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Dave Romanelli set out to interview people eighty and over, he came across a treasure trove of life experience and the lessons that come from that. He introduces many of them, some in tiny snippets, others in longer essays. The stories themselves are interesting to read. The life lessons are good, although pretty standard for anyone familiar with the many books in the self-help market. May they fall on open hearts and hurting souls. I would have found the book more satisfying had the focus been more on the oldsters than on the author and the lessons he gleaned from them. That may be because I'm nearing the age of the "younger" old people he interviewed. A well told tale doesn't need to have the lessons extracted. They lie within.

[Kayleigh D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honor, authenticity, and inspiration are just a few words to describe this collection of wholesome life experiences. David Romanelli is a phenomenal story teller and I really appreciated his genuine passion to shine a light on our elders. Their life experiences are true gifts, which I believe modern day society should intently cling to. This book was a fresh reminder to slow down and acquire time to absorb the wisdom that lies in my midst. This book is a treasure and has inspired me to start journaling my own conversations with the elders I know!

[Cori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Go and talk to an elder. It will change your life. I loved this book!

[Shanti · Rating 4 out of 5]

A compilation of interactions David has with people in there 80s, 90s, and 100s. In our technology based society, information is readily available. We can practically google anything for anything and within seconds we will have the answer. As mentioned in the book, it’s one thing to read an experience but to listen to someone who survived a concentration camp and the wisdom they possess is extremely profound. Many of the interviewees endured some sort of hardship and have compelling stories to tell. Whether it be war, immigrating to a new country with no money, or enduring the loss of a loved one, these beautiful humans have such a wonderful outlook on life. What I got out of this book is to appreciate the little things in life and be present. A walk in the park and hear the birds chirping. Listening intently to the chords of your favourite song. Spending time with loved ones. “When you are young, accomplishment is what you have to show for yourself. When you are older, accomplishment is people showing up for you.”

[Daniel Weinrot · Rating 5 out of 5]

David's newest book couldn't come at more welcome time when the general mood in this country could best be described as the Discourse of Discord. David takes time and heartfelt energy to explore the insights and understandings from an older & wiser generation that survived hardships and changing worlds with much more grace and respect for one another. His writing is inspirational and carries a sense of reflection on what it takes to lead a long and healthy life that will allow today's younger generation to better connect with their older generation as they discover better ways to get along, seek common ground and lead healthy lives that are worthy to leaving the world a better place for those that follow. I recommend this book for anyone that wants to feel good about the potential of us all in the shadow of turmoil, distrust and discord.

[Britt Peck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a MUST read to find the secrets to a happy and long life. There are some gold nugget life lessons for anyone at any age and any stage in life nestled right in these pages.

There is no one out there documenting (except Dave Romanelli!) these precious life stories and lessons and I'm so glad he's compiled his findings in one place. These people are all around us!

You can hear Dave's passion for sharing and storytelling and it makes you appreciate elders and take life a little less seriously! Thanks for this AWESOME read!!

[Wicked · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not as good as I was expecting but still an enjoyable read.

[Stephanie B · Rating 3 out of 5]

some sage words and neat stories