Shirley Hodes and her sister Ruth “Ruthy” Sweedler grew up in a modest household during the 1910s and 20s, sharing a small living space with their six older siblings. Their family of ten crammed into a two-bedroom, one-bath apartment, often forcing the sisters and a third sibling to share a single bed in the attic. This close living condition fostered a strong and enduring connection between them, one that lasted until they both passed away just days apart this winter, with Shirley reaching 108 years and Ruthy 105 years.
Their remarkable longevity did not go unnoticed; they were recognized as one of the oldest living sister pairs in the United States. Although exact verification is challenging, as a combined duo they made history with a total age of 213 years. As their great-grandchildren, we had the opportunity to bond with them over the years, absorbing valuable life lessons about joy, longevity, and well-being.
Key Lessons from Shirley and Ruthy
1. Embrace the Joy of Dancing
Rather than adhering strictly to stringent health rules, Shirley and Ruthy took a more relaxed attitude toward life. Although they were mindful of their health by eating nutritious foods, they also enjoyed indulgent treats like ice cream without guilt. Their philosophy revolved around savoring life to its fullest. Shirley joyfully stated that she didn’t let the complexities of relationships stop her from dancing, saying, “When it comes to dancing, yes! I’ll dance with anyone!”
2. Find Strength in Belief
Both sisters found solace and purpose in their faith. Ruthy was actively involved in her synagogue and took part in study groups. Her sense of community was important, as she maintained connections even as age limited her ability to participate physically. Shirley, too, held her faith dearly, continuing to nurture relationships with her rabbi throughout her life, which deepened her sense of belonging.
3. Passion for Lifelong Learning
Shirley and Ruthy’s curiosity pushed them to continually seek knowledge. Ruthy was an avid reader who cherished books, while Shirley approached life with an insatiable curiosity, fostering connections with others. Both believed that engaging with new ideas kept them youthful, proving that lifelong learning is crucial in maintaining mental vitality.
4. Redefining Aging
When questioning the notion of middle age, Shirley provided her own perspective: “At 50, you’re just starting to live.” This optimistic view illustrates their belief that age is merely a number, serving as an encouragement for others nearing similar milestones to embrace life with enthusiasm.
5. Focus on the Future
Throughout their lives, the sisters faced adversity, but they remained resolute in pursuing happiness. Ruthy expressed her outlook succinctly: “I don’t look back. I look forward.” This forward-thinking mindset equipped them to overcome challenges without regret, highlighting the importance of a positive outlook.
In the twilight of their long lives, both Shirley and Ruthy exuded gratitude for their experiences. They taught us that even amidst hardships, the essence of a fulfilling life lies in cherishing moments, nurturing relationships, and maintaining an optimistic approach towards aging and the future. As Shirley once reflected, “I think I’ll die knowing and realizing how lucky I’ve been.”
