Ossining resident Barbara Williams grew up in Illinois. A shy middle child with two older brothers and a younger sister, she clung to her mother’s skirt in social situations. On the first day of second grade, her separation anxiety forced her mother to stay in class with her rather than her outgoing younger sister.
Through the years, Barbara became more self-confident and comfortable in social situations after her popular brother, who was close to her age, included her in his activities. She slowly emerged from her shell and made friends. She went on to become a registered nurse and volunteered with the Red Cross.
One of her passions has been reading self-improvement books, and she told River Journal, “We should never stop becoming the best version of ourselves, a concept developed by Matthew Kelly, an internationally acclaimed author, speaker, innovator, and spiritual leader.” In her quest to become the best she can be, she learned to place the needs of others before her own, pay good deeds forward, and perform random acts of kindness. “I’ve prepared food for a family when a mother was ill, and I paid for the lunch of a stranger in line behind me at a cafeteria.”
Barbara likes the small-town atmosphere and friendly residents of her new hometown. “I moved to Ossining three years ago to live with my daughter and her family. It gave me an opportunity to become closer to my three granddaughters, Zoey, 16, Marley, 14, and Ivy, 12.”
She has achieved a heightened sense of compassion and tolerance for others, especially those of different generations who have views and opinions unlike her own. She thrives outside of her comfort zone and accepts the ever-changing family dynamic. “I respect each of my children’s lifestyles even though they are different from my own and unlike the way their father and I raised them.”
She believes remaining engaged both physically and mentally regardless of age enhances health and happiness. Knitting and quilting have been life-long hobbies and in her senior years, she enjoys reading and crossword puzzles. But the smile on her face when she is near her grandchildren is evidence of what brings the most joy to her life. Barbara says, “When I interact with my grandchildren, I accept them for who they are and for their views on the future. I am the best version of myself.” Self-improvement is ongoing, and it is never too late to be the absolute best.
Old Traditions, New Beginnings is a compilation of stories 250-1,000 words per submission from those 60 years and older. Those interested in contributing their own writing or volunteering to help others share their contributions are encouraged to email district95@nyassembly.gov.
