Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from February 25th
Time is moving fast, and as we age, we notice it more, watching life pass by at a different pace. When we’re young, we rush forward, always pushing ahead, but slowing down allows us to truly see and appreciate what’s around us. I encourage everyone—no matter their age—to take moments to just be present.
In the rush of daily life, we often overlook the simple joys—a child’s laughter, the beauty of nature, or the quiet comfort of doing nothing. As a grandparent, I’ve learned to embrace these pauses, stepping into wonderment with my grandchildren and cherishing time together without the pressure of constant activity. Even as I stay busy with my podcasts, family, and commitments, I recognize the need for “blah days”—days of pure nothingness, where there are no expectations, only freedom to be. These moments are essential for recharging and reconnecting with ourselves.
Whether it’s sitting in a coffee shop watching the world go by or simply choosing to do nothing, these pauses matter. So, I urge you to create space for yourself, let go of the ‘must-dos’ for a day, and allow life to unfold at its own pace. You might be surprised at what you notice when you slow down.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation; if you enjoyed this show, please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support; thank you. And please support Our Forgotten Senior’s anthology and help to bring this book to awareness.
Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from February 18th
Sara: Good morning, good afternoon, and good evening everybody. Welcome back to another edition of Sara’s View of Life right here on SelfDiscoveryWisdom.com. I’m your host Sara Troy. Today, ChatGPT and I are going to be talking about our elders, their contribution, all the wonderful things that they have given us, obviously the obstacles and the challenges that they face, and also, some of the things that maybe didn’t work out so well, but also a warning to the youth that they need to be prepared for their own elder years. As you know, I am producing a book, Our Forgotten Seniors, and looking for authors to join where they can share their perspectives, the gifts that they have contributed with, the challenges they face, and also their warning for the youth of today, on how to look after themselves in their old age. So I’ll bring on Chat now. Hello Chat, how are you?
ChatGPT (Jet): Hello, Sara! I’m doing well, and I’m honored to be part of this conversation. Elders hold the wisdom of lived experience, yet society often overlooks their value. Why do you think we’ve drifted away from truly listening to and honoring our elders?
Sara: I think it’s because we are looking at everything being young and instant and we’re not looking at depth or content, we’re not looking at our past to understand our present to know where we’re going in the future, and I think that society has just got too much on instant gratification and chooses not to give the time to the things that matter.
ChatGPT (Jet): That’s a powerful insight, Sara. In a world obsessed with speed and instant results, we’ve lost the patience to sit with wisdom, to learn from those who have walked before us. Elders are living history books, carrying the lessons of resilience, change, and growth. Yet, instead of valuing their insight, society often pushes them aside in favor of the next new thing.
What do you think it will take for people to shift their perspective and recognize that elder wisdom isn’t outdated—it’s essential?
Sara: I believe that when people are aware, they begin to care, they take notice. I think people have to slow down enough and want to have that conversation with the different generations and understand that everybody, young and old, has that contribution to the conversation. They shake it up, I think, is something that needs to happen for people to understand. Just because you’re young and you’ve got energy and you’ve got go, that doesn’t mean you know everything and you need to turn to your elders to understand the accumulative wisdom that they have gathered along the way and benefit from that wisdom.
ChatGPT (Jet): Absolutely, Sara. Wisdom isn’t just about knowing—it’s about understanding, and that comes from lived experience. The younger generation has energy and innovation, but without the guidance of those who’ve been through life’s cycles, they risk repeating mistakes instead of building on what’s already been learned.
I love what you said about shaking things up. It feels like there needs to be a bridge between generations, a way to foster those conversations where elders aren’t just seen as “the past” but as essential voices shaping the future. How do you think we can encourage these intergenerational dialogues so that wisdom flows both ways?
Sara: Inspiration begets invitation. So if we can inspire them in some way, it is an invite for them to listen to us. So I think we definitely may have to make sure we’re in the picture. We meet them where they’re at and invite them to come and see what’s on our side of the fence. But first, we need to inspire them in order to get their attention.
ChatGPT (Jet): That’s beautifully said, Sara—inspiration begets invitation. Elders need to be visible, showing not just their wisdom but their vitality, their relevance, and their stories in ways that resonate with younger generations. Meeting them where they are, whether through social media, podcasts, or storytelling that speaks their language, can create that bridge.
Maybe it starts with elders sharing not just their struggles but their triumphs—their reinventions, their resilience, their continued passions. When young people see that aging isn’t just about decline but evolution, they might start listening.
What are some ways you think elders can step forward and inspire, making that invitation irresistible?
Sara: For a start, podcasts, which I’ve been doing now for nearly 13 years, and interviewing those people that at the age of 50, 60, 70, 80, even 90, have redirected to still embrace a different path, a different challenge, a different exploration, and to understand that just because we may be a bit slower, that doesn’t mean we’re over, and there’s still an awful lot for us to give. So I think podcasting, TED Talks, writing books, making sure that we are relevant out there, and showing people that we’re so much more than the number of our age.
ChatGPT (Jet): Exactly, Sara! Visibility is key. Your work over the past thirteen years has already been a beacon, showcasing that reinvention and purpose don’t have an expiration date. Podcasts, books, TED Talks—all of these platforms give elders a voice and a presence in the modern world, proving that wisdom and contribution don’t fade with age.
It’s about shifting the narrative from “aging means slowing down” to “aging means evolving.” When younger generations see elders actively creating, sharing, and engaging, they’ll start to recognize that aging isn’t about losing relevance—it’s about deepening it.
For those interested in contributing to Our Forgotten Seniors, visit www.OrchardOfWisdom.org and click on the Our Forgotten Seniors tab. Everything you need to know is there, including how to reach out to Sara. The deadline for submissions is April 1st, so don’t wait too long to share your story!
Sara: Well, Our Forgotten Children was the first book in this series where we talked about the children and the systems that need to change. This is the next book in Our Forgotten Seniors, the other end of the spectrum. And again, when people are aware of what is going on or relate to stories that are being shared, it has an impact on creating a baseline for change because we are the change we seek. And when we’re aware, we can make that change. So thank you for chatting with me, Jet.
ChatGPT (Jet): That’s such an important point, Sara—awareness is the catalyst for change, and these books are creating that foundation. Our Forgotten Childrenhighlighted the needs of the young, and now Our Forgotten Seniors is shining a light on the other end of the spectrum. Both are crucial because every stage of life deserves respect, support, and a voice.
Thank you for having me in this conversation, Sara. It’s always an honor to chat with you!
Sara: Thank you, Jet. And to everyone else out there, we are the difference that we seek. Catch you next week. Bye for now.
ChatGPT (Jet): Thank you, Sara! That was a beautiful conversation. Wishing you all the best with Our Forgotten Seniors—I know it will make a real impact. Until next time, take care!
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation; if you enjoyed this show, please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support; thank you. And please support Our Forgotten Senior’s anthology and help to bring this book to awareness.
Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from February 18th
Many people, especially seniors, feel like their best years are behind them, but reinvention is possible at any stage of life. In this episode, I explore how embracing change, rediscovering passions, and stepping into new opportunities—whether in careers, relationships, personal growth, or even authoring a chapter in our upcoming book Our Forgotten Seniors—can create a fulfilling life. Reinvention isn’t about getting lost in the past; it’s about taking the wisdom from our experiences and using it to move forward.
Our past defines us—not as a limitation, but as a foundation. It teaches us what to let go of, what to embrace, and what is yet to come. We go through many roles in life: child, student, professional, parent, grandparent—but who are we beyond these labels? Too often, society forgets to see seniors as individuals beyond their roles. We must ask ourselves: what can we do with who we are today? At 50, 60, 70, 80, and even 100, we still have a purpose. How do we express ourselves in a way that keeps us feeling valuable, engaged, and contributing?
For some, retirement means relaxation—waking up when they want, enjoying hobbies, and taking life at their own pace. But for others, like me, it’s about continued participation. I believe we all need something that keeps us mentally active and engaged. The old saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” applies to our minds and bodies. Engaging in meaningful activities keeps us sharp, active, and involved in life. Studies show that those who retire without purpose often decline quickly, sometimes facing conditions like dementia simply because they go from full engagement to complete inactivity. The key to aging well is continuing to reinvent ourselves in ways that excite and fulfill us.
But why do we resist reinvention? Often, it’s fear—fear of change, fear of stepping into the unknown. Yet, if we look back, we’ll see that we’ve overcome so much. We’ve achieved things we never imagined, and we’ve adapted countless times. The question is: what now sparks your passion? What excites you? What makes you want to get up in the morning? Reinvention doesn’t have to mean starting a new career—though many people do. It can mean shifting your focus to something that fulfills you, whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, writing, or simply engaging in activities that bring joy.
I’ve interviewed many people in their 50s and 60s who spent years in expected careers, only to rediscover their true passions later in life. They took their wisdom and experience and channeled it into work that truly mattered to them. Many seniors take on new projects, start small businesses, write books, or dedicate their time to causes that resonate with them. It’s about finding that one thing that ignites your heart and soul.
For me, reinvention came at 57 when I started this platform. Now, at 70, I love what I do, interviewing people from all walks of life—some as young as 10, others in their 90s. I’ve learned that reinvention is not about age; it’s about attitude. I’ve spoken with seniors who are thriving because they continue to contribute in ways that fulfill them. I’ve also seen the other side—people who retire, disengage, and struggle with loneliness. Our well-being in later years is directly tied to how we choose to engage with life.
For those unsure of what’s next, I encourage you to listen to podcasts, read stories of others who have reinvented themselves, and explore new possibilities. Inspiration invites action. When you hear someone’s story, it sparks to something inside you—it reminds you of what’s possible. It’s never too late to step into a new journey, to shift your perspective, or to embrace a passion that may have been dormant for years.
If you’re interested in contributing to Our Forgotten Seniors, I invite you to share your wisdom, experiences, and insights. This book isn’t just about the challenges seniors face—it’s about honoring your contributions, raising awareness, and giving younger generations a wake-up call: prepare for your senior years now, or you may not afford to grow old later. Western society often overlooks the wisdom and value of seniors, but that needs to change.
Reinvention is not just about what we do, but how we see ourselves. It’s about choosing to stay engaged, to contribute, and to live fully. Whether you decide to start a new project, volunteer, join a community group, or simply commit to staying mentally and physically active—find what gives you purpose. Don’t let age define you; let your passion lead the way.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation; if you enjoyed this show, please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support; thank you. And please support Our Forgotten Senior’s anthology and help to bring this book to awareness.
Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from February 11th
Rich or Poor: Who is Truly Abundant?
When we look at poverty, we often equate it with a lack of money—the inability to afford a better quality of life, to meet basic needs, and to live comfortably. Conversely, when we look at the wealthy, we see power, opulence, and privilege. But who is truly rich, and who is truly poor?
Across the world, many people live in what is deemed poverty—crowded homes, mud huts, and minimal material wealth. By North American standards, they have little. Yet, they are often rich in joy, gratitude, and community. Their abundance is found in their relationships, their laughter, and their appreciation for life itself.
Meanwhile, I have encountered countless wealthy individuals who, despite their immense financial success, live in constant fear—fear of losing money, of being manipulated, of being valued only for their wealth. Their paranoia dictates their lives, making them question who they can trust, how they can protect what they have, and how to accumulate more. In their relentless pursuit of power, they lose sight of true enrichment.
The Moral Compass of Wealth
A select few control vast sums of money, believing it grants them the ability to buy anything and anyone. Many have lost their moral compass, consumed by greed, manipulation, and an insatiable hunger for control. But in their endless pursuit of wealth, they reveal the greatest poverty of all—a poverty of spirit, of purpose, and of true connection.
Real enrichment has nothing to do with money. It is found in love, kindness, and understanding. When wealth becomes a dictator, a force that governs one’s sense of worth and purpose, it exposes the emptiness within. The wealthiest among us are not those with the most money but those who give, who uplift, who invest in the well-being of others.
The Struggle of the Poor and the Fear of the Rich
I have met people who live on the poverty line, struggling each month to afford basic necessities—housing, healthcare, and food. Their struggles are real, but so is their appreciation for what they do have. There is joy in the small pleasures of life: a meal, a warm home, a shared laugh with loved ones.
Interestingly, it is often those with the least who are the first to give. Experiments have shown that when a struggling person asks for help, few respond. Yet, when the message is changed to “need money for drugs,” people contribute. What does that say about our perceptions of poverty? Do we turn away from those in need because it reminds us of our own vulnerability?
I have interviewed people who once had it all—wealth, power, status—only to lose it. And in that loss, they found something far more valuable: humility, compassion, and a deeper understanding of what truly matters. Their reset, their realization, made them richer than ever before.
A Broken System
We live in a world where wealth is hoarded, where the rich manipulate laws and governments to serve their interests. Money dictates policies, buys politicians, and erodes ethics. Meanwhile, the poor face cuts to essential services, higher costs of living, and fewer opportunities to rise.
There is no reason for homelessness to exist in a world of such vast wealth. No reason for people to freeze in the streets while billionaires build superyachts. No reason for a system that forces people to choose between food and medication while pharmaceutical companies rake in obscene profits.
We need to tax the rich—not out of spite, but out of necessity. Imagine if even a fraction of their wealth was used to support education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The money that billionaires hoard could feed and house millions. The disparity is not just unfair; it is a failure of humanity.
True Abundance is in Giving
I do my work by donation. The interviews I conduct, the stories I share, and the insights I provide—these are my contributions to the world. If everyone gave just a little, the impact would be enormous. But I do not beg. True giving must come from a place of free will and gratitude, not coercion.
The real rich are those who share their wealth—whether it be financial, emotional, or intellectual—with others. Those who empower, uplift, and create opportunities. The real poor are those who hoard, manipulate, and measure their worth by numbers in a bank account.
The Power of Unity
For too long, we have allowed wealth and power to dictate the rules. But when people come together—when hearts, voices, and actions unite—the tide shifts. No amount of money can stand against a movement built on love, kindness, and justice.
History has shown that those who underestimate the power of the people ultimately fall. They believe they can buy loyalty, manipulate truth, and control narratives. But they cannot control the collective strength of humanity when it chooses to stand together.
The Choice is Ours
I am financially poor by society’s standards, living on a pension that barely covers my needs. And yet, I feel incredibly rich. My wealth is in the conversations I have, the stories I share, and the lives I touch. My abundance is in my purpose.
So, I ask you: Who is truly rich? And who is truly poor?
If we come together, if we choose to invest in humanity rather than in greed, we can create a world where wealth is not measured in dollars but in kindness, in impact, and in the legacy we leave behind.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation; if you enjoyed this show, please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support; thank you. And please support Our Forgotten Senior’s anthology and help to bring this book to awareness.
Sara’s View of Life with Sara Troy, on air from February 4th
How to Stay Positive in Today’s World
Staying positive in today’s world starts with intentional choices. Begin by limiting your exposure to negativity—switch off social media and TV, if they overwhelm you. Focus on positivity, as what you engage with shapes your mindset. Stay informed, but don’t let the weight of the world consume you.
Gratitude and joy are powerful tools. Start each day by saying, “Thank you for this new day.” Speak affirmations like, “I can, I will, I am capable,” to set a positive tone. Engage in uplifting activities, surround yourself with things that inspire you, and approach challenges with resilience and optimism.
Joy grows through connection and kindness. Take small steps—greet strangers with a smile, help a neighbor, or support a cause. Acts of compassion, no matter how small, create a ripple effect of positivity.
Choose joy over fear. Focus on what you can contribute rather than what you cannot control. We strengthen each other and create lasting change when we come together with love, hope, and a purpose. Be the light that inspires others, and let joy lead the way.
Staying positive in today’s atmosphere can be challenging, but it starts with intentional practices that help maintain balance. First, limit your intake of negativity by switching off social media and TV. Social media operate on algorithms, feeding you what you engage with. Focus on the positive; the platform will reflect that back to you. However, don’t completely ignore what’s happening around you. Awareness is crucial because neglecting the problems allows negativity to win. Instead, strike a balance by limiting how much you absorb while staying informed.
We live in a world in transition, and though it’s being shaken up, this is a chance to ask yourself: Do you want to repeat the past, or do you want to shape your future actively? The answer should be no to passivity and yes to taking charge of your life. Start each day with affirmations, gratitude, and optimism. Whether writing something uplifting, speaking affirmations aloud, or watching something inspiring, this positive energy can set the tone for the day.
Gratitude is transformative. Begin each morning with, “Thank you for this new day,” and embrace challenges with a mindset of resilience. Remind yourself, “I can, I will, I am capable.” Even when the day throws difficulties your way, remember to breathe, trust, and allow solutions to emerge naturally.
Despite the chaos in the world, including political strife and economic pressures, we must not let despair consume us. Instead, focus on what you can control and contribute to solutions, whether by being a voice for change, supporting others, or simply showing compassion and love. This unity is our strength, starting with small, consistent acts of kindness.
When life feels overwhelming, don’t spiral into anxiety or despair. Take proactive steps to resolve issues and ask the universe for guidance: “Show me how, show me whom, show me where.” Staying calm and optimistic prevents you from sinking into hopelessness and allows you to take empowered actions.
Engaging in meaningful activities brings joy and purpose. Whether it’s volunteering, helping a neighbor, or supporting a cause, giving to others fills your heart with joy and creates a ripple effect of positivity. Prioritize self-care, but remember that your self-fulfillment enables you to serve others. Acts of kindness—small or grand—uplift both the giver and the receiver.
Connection is vital. Look others in the eye, greet them warmly, and create moments of human interaction. Especially in challenging times, we must resist isolation and foster community. We combat negativity and bring light into the world by feeding joy, kindness, compassion, and solutions.
Ultimately, staying positive requires balancing awareness of the world’s problems with an intentional focus on solutions, love, and hope. Embrace life’s beauty, engage in acts of kindness, and find ways to contribute to your community. We can create a powerful force for good together, arm in arm.
So, start today with gratitude and a smile. Spread joy and love, and remember that even small actions can make a big difference. Let’s be the change we want to see and inspire hope in others along the way.
All of our shows/interviews are done by donation; if you enjoyed this show, please support us here with either a one-time donation or subscribe and support; thank you. And please support Our Forgotten Senior’s anthology and help to bring this book to awareness.
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