As the calendar turns to a new year, the atmosphere at The Ridge Senior Living in Salt Lake County is filled with nostalgia and wisdom. A group of residents, each in their golden years, gathered around a table to share stories from their rich past and impart valuable advice to the younger generations who are now setting their own goals for 2026. This gathering not only serves as a reflection of their individual journeys but also highlights the collective experiences that have shaped their lives. Joan Poston, a vibrant 90-year-old, recounted her adventures as a pilot in the Philippines. "Being a pilot was just a matter of convenience for me. We lived in the Philippines, and traveling around was difficult on the roads. I flew around instead of driving," she explained, a sparkle in her eye as she reminisced about her past. Her story is one of many that paints a picture of resilience and adaptability in challenging circumstances. Gilbert Grosvenor, a 94-year-old former National Geographic employee, shared a gripping tale of his time spent under the ice at the North Pole. "I was invited to join an expedition to the North Pole, and we dove under the ice. I had a special wetsuit that had been used by Prince Charles the summer before," he recalled, his voice filled with excitement. However, Grosvenor's journey has not been without hardship; he revealed that he lost his eyesight a decade ago. "I was writing a book at that time, and if anything, it helped me with the book," he said, showcasing his determination to continue pursuing his passions despite physical challenges. The stories shared by these seniors offer a glimpse into the goals that continue to motivate them even in their 90s. Poston expressed her desire to remain active following a recent surgery. "I want to get up and at it more," she stated, exemplifying the spirit of perseverance that many seniors embody. Meanwhile, 68-year-old David "Buddy" Micalizio shared a personal goal: "I have one big one, I want to stay under 260 pounds." This focus on health and wellness resonates across generations, as maintaining physical fitness becomes increasingly important with age. As they reflected on their lives, many seniors expressed a common sentiment: a longing for more time. Sandy Roland, an 80-year-old resident, poignantly articulated this feeling: "My mom used to say life is short. And I thought, oh, no. But now that I'm 80, I say she was right. It is short. All of a sudden, I'm 80. And I said, where did it all go, all the things that I did?" Her reflection serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of time and the importance of cherishing each moment. With the younger generation poised to set their own resolutions for the upcoming year, these seniors offered sage advice based on their life experiences. Ann Blackner, aged 91, emphasized the significance of self-care. "I'm amazed that I'm here. And I guess advice for younger people would be, you may live a long time, so you better take care of yourself and plan on it," she advised, highlighting the essential role of health in ensuring a long and fulfilling life. Grosvenor further encouraged the youth to pursue their passions. "Follow your heart. Don’t be motivated by what people tell you you should do; do what you feel is what you want to do," he said, urging younger individuals to carve their own paths rather than succumbing to societal pressures. This message resonates deeply, especially in a world that often emphasizes conformity over individuality. Humor was not lost in the gathering, as the residents shared light-hearted jabs about their younger selves. Micalizio joked, "Maybe less partying," while Blackner playfully countered, "I would tell myself to not be so particular and careful and live it up more than I did, just the opposite of Buddy." These exchanges not only fostered camaraderie among the group but also illustrated the joy of looking back on life with a sense of humor. As the new year gets underway, the reflections and advice from these seniors serve as a guiding light for the younger generations. Their stories remind us of the importance of living life fully, taking care of our health, and pursuing our passions with vigor. The lessons learned from their experiences are invaluable, offering a roadmap for navigating the complexities of life as 2026 approaches. In a world that often overlooks the wisdom of age, these residents exemplify the rich tapestry of life experiences that continue to inspire and guide us all.