An attitude for longevity

Sometimes an individuals attitude leaves an impact on you that changes the way you view your world,  your life, and what your role is in it.

Such is the experience I had after working a late night last week.   I stopped for a coffee and fresh-air in North East Edmonton, sitting outside a Tim Hortons around 11:00 ay night.   A few people gathered in the parking lot talking over trucks, others were finishing up late night shopping at a nearby grocery store.  I sat and observed.

One man caught my eye , as his pace of movement was a little quicker than most, more intentional and purposeful in his actions this evening.  He was picking up trash in the parking lot, pushing shopping buggies back into place, and generally 'taking care of things'

I made small talk with him as he passed my way, commenting on the nice evening, his focus in his work, and my desire for more benches and park space to enjoy evenings like this.  I learned that he has been in Edmonton for over 50 years and loves Alberta.  The accent told me he was European, so I pried a little on how long he has been in Alberta.

I was soon on my way, and stopped about a mile down the road to fuel up the truck.  A busy 7-11 had friends gathering, people coming an going,  - AND -
An elderly Italian man, emptying trash bins, picking up scattered litter, and collecting a few bottles.  He offered to remove some waist form the back of a young mans pick up truck, and was tipped a few dollars.  The old man graciously accepted and turned to notice me pumping gas.

"OH- Hello!" he said, and walked my way to empty the bins near where I was.
My impression of this man changed , from someone who was a parking lot cleaner , to realizing he covered many blocks, and worked for no single company.  A small conversation between us followed again, and I discovered that he simply wants to keep living!

At 250 pounds, and health problems in his sixties, Gabrielle decided he was going to just keep on moving, - and keep on doing, for his own sake.  He simply decided to get outside every evening and help his neighbours keep the streets clean.  he walks several miles, and gets plenty of exercise.  I watched Gabriela for only a few minutes , but he was lifting and twisting, bending and crouching, and never seemed to slow down.

Now at 75 years of age, and looking about 180 pounds, Gabrielle seemed to be enjoying his life.  He told me he enjoys mingling with people and getting outside.  He makes a few dollars with tips and bottles, but more importantly he is making an investment in himself.

I could have ignored the parking lot cleaner while I sipped my coffee, but I learned a few this about this man who has inspired me to keep moving, and keep doing - as long as I can , wherever I can.

Keep moving - Keep Doing
And make it a Great day!
~Blaine