The Power of Starting Late: Life Lessons from My 98-Year-Old Grandfather

As we step into the final month of the year, I’m filled with a sense of urgency—not the frantic, stressed-out kind, but the purposeful drive to make every moment count. For years, I’ve shared my journey with you: growing up in the South Bronx, embracing resilience through martial arts, facing challenges like rheumatoid arthritis, and undergoing hip replacements. But today, I want to talk about something deeper—something that binds us all together, no matter where we are in life: the power of starting late.

Too often, we think life has passed us by. We say things like, “I’m too old,” “I’m too out of shape,” or “I’ve missed my chance.” I’ve been there. Facing two hip replacements will make you question your body and your ability to bounce back. But here’s the thing: starting late doesn’t mean you’re behind. It means you’re ready. It means you’ve got the wisdom to make this chapter the strongest one yet.

I’m reminded of a lunch I had with my Grandpa John when he was 95 years old. Grandpa John was born on October 17, 1916, and passed away at 98, just a week after his birthday. At 95, he drove his Prius up from Florida, where he lived, and stopped by my home on his way to Nova Scotia. He said he’d been all over the States and most of Canada, but never to Nova Scotia, so he figured it was a good time. That was my Grandpa John: always moving, always learning, always living strong.

Grandpa John wasn’t just a man who inspired me—he was my hero. A recipient of the Bronze Star and Purple Heart for his service in World War II, he carried his strength and humility with him through every stage of life. In March 2015, he was laid to rest with honors in Arlington National Cemetery, a final testament to a life of service, resilience, and unwavering character.

On his memorial card was a poem that spoke perfectly to the spirit of the man I knew—a man who always reached for the stars, who embraced life with a sense of wonder and possibility. It read:

As I Leave the Earth,
Among the Stars, I soar
Rising higher to Thee
I cannot ask for more.
But to Fly with wings unfurled
To reach the vast beyond,
My spirit is of the universe ~
The Universe is where I Belong.
~ J.C. High Eagle

Grandpa John’s life reminds me that no matter where you are in life, there’s always more to discover, more to give, and more to live.

Starting late isn’t just about overcoming physical challenges; it’s about embracing a mindset. For me, it’s on the mats that this mindset truly comes to life. The lessons, principles, and concepts of living strong become more than ideas—they become what I call “living and active.” On the mats, resilience isn’t just a word; it’s a practice. Focus becomes action. And strength becomes transformation.

This month, I’m launching a daily blog series inspired by the wisdom of those who’ve walked this Earth for 80 years or more. These reflections will feature stories from people like my Grandpa John and will also draw from the insights of others who’ve lived full, extraordinary lives. For example, I’ve come across centenarians sharing their “100 Pieces of Advice” and elders offering timeless truths about relationships, purpose, and resilience. We’ll explore the lessons of lifelong learners, like those who remind us to “never stop moving,” and hear from those who found joy in simplicity and strength in forgiveness. These reflections will serve as guideposts for younger generations—ages 20 to 60—seeking inspiration and direction. I’ll also weave in lessons from my own journey, showing how the challenges I’ve faced have shaped my understanding of what it means to live strong.

As we begin this journey, I encourage you to reflect on your own life. Where have you held back? What’s one thing you’ve told yourself you’re too old or too late to do? Write it down. Then, let’s make a pact to start anyway.

Let’s rise. Let’s thrive. Let’s live strong.