Woman of Wisdom || Vol. 1

Meet Dodie ~ 95 Years Strong

Welcome to my new blog series, *Women of Wisdom*, where we celebrate the extraordinary lives of women who continue to inspire and thrive in their golden years. As a functional nutritionist, I firmly believe that while proper nutrition is essential for maintaining our physical health, it is equally important to nourish our spiritual, mental, and emotional well-being. Our relationships, personal growth, and resilience are just as crucial in living a fulfilling and vibrant life.

In this series, we’ll explore the stories of remarkable women who have not only embraced their later years with grace and wisdom but have also continually reinvented themselves. Their experiences offer invaluable lessons on resilience, joy, and the importance of holistic wellness.

Join me as we delve into the rich tapestry of their lives, learning from their challenges, triumphs, and the timeless wisdom they have to share. Let’s be inspired to live fully, embrace every stage of life, and nurture all aspects of our well-being.

Vol. 1

95 Years Strong

with Dodie Griffin

I recently had the profound pleasure of spending a day with Dodie Griffin, a vibrant 95-year-old woman who embodies wisdom and joy. Our adventure began when I picked Dodie up in my son’s FJ Cruiser. I expressed my hope that she could manage to get in, to which she confidently replied, “I am a climber.” True to her word, with a little help from the curbs, Dodie effortlessly climbed in and out of the vehicle three times that day with impressive agility. Our first stop was the YMCA, where Dodie and I worked out lifting weights. We shared laughter and encouragement, snapping a few photos along the way, including one of us at the gym and another of Dodie conquering her least favorite machine, the chest fly. Her favorite machine is the stationary bike. I snuck in a quick video capturing her effortlessly using the ab machine, a testament to her commitment to staying active. (see below)

After our workout, we headed to Luby’s for a shrimp lunch, her treat, of course. Over delicious food, Dodie shared stories from her past. Her face lit up as she reminisced about family dinners, particularly her 95th, where she was surrounded by loved ones. One of her favorite pieces of wisdom,

“Do not read from the book of pain every day”

This philosophy has helped her focus on joy and positivity rather than dwelling on past pains. Dodie’s joy extends beyond family gatherings. She finds happiness in spending time with her children, learning new things from books, crocheting, and staying active. Her kindness and dedication shine through in all her endeavors, a guiding principle she has lived by most of her life.

Her tales about her late husband, a Marine, were filled with love and resilience. They began their journey with modest means, always supporting each other through life’s challenges. She recounted buying their first office furniture, a simple desk and chair, using her savings from teaching. Their relationship flourished through shared learning and mutual respect, starting from their first meeting in the library. Dodie fondly remembered their first date at a Baylor baseball game, where he picked her up on his bike—a memory that still brings a smile to her face.

A few other cherished memories Dodie shared included going into town with her mom to sell their homemade cottage cheese and bringing home cuttings of flowers. She also vividly recalls the excitement of riding an elevator for the first time.

Faith has been a cornerstone of Dodie’s life. Joining the Methodist Church in 1961 gave her a sense of community and belonging.

Her favorite Bible verse,

Ephesians 2:8-10,

encapsulates her belief in the

gift of grace and the importance of gratitude

“For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves,

it is the gift of God.”

For those facing challenges, Dodie’s advice is to recognize that you are beloved and to find solace in the Holy Spirit. Embracing this spiritual guidance, she believes, can lead to inner peace and resilience. After lunch, we headed to Dodie’s home, where she gave me a tour of her beautiful garden. Her green thumb was evident in the vibrant blooms and carefully tended plants. Before I left, she generously gave me several cuttings, which I promptly planted in my garden. Every time I see and water them, I will remember her and our wonderful day together. Dodie’s daily rituals include starting each day with a prayer, setting a positive tone for her day. She often sends this prayer in her emails to friends:

Good morning, Lord. I don’t know what this day will bring, but I offer it all to you.

I only want to please you this day, so I ask that your spirit guide my every thought and my every action.

When this day is done, may you be pleased, and this world once again blessed by your grace. Amen.

She also stresses the importance of listening to your body and treating it as a lifelong friend. Despite having six hip replacements, Dodie believes in creating a plan to address health issues, emphasizing proactive care. As our day together drew to a close, I asked Dodie what advice she would give to women going through the season of (peri)menopause or the season after raising a family and entering the empty nest phase. With a twinkle in her eye, she responded,

“Wait for the surprise!

Wait and watch for all the wonderful surprises God has in store for you.”

As I reflect on my day with Dodie Griffin, I’m reminded of the incredible strength and wisdom that come with age. Her insights into joy, perseverance, faith, and gratitude are invaluable lessons for us all. Let us carry her wisdom forward, embracing each day with kindness, listening to our bodies, and nurturing our souls with gratitude and faith.

Griffin

Early

Learning Center

Est. 2024

“The Griffin Early Learning Center embodies the passion and dedication of Marian Griffin and her late husband Dr. John Griffin. They believe children are our future and believe that all children should be set up for success. They believe in the Y,” said Michele Morales, executive director of the Calhoun County YMCA.”