Brigid TitgemeierBeingBrigid Functional Nutrition · Transforming Women's Health Using Food as Medicine

"Life Is Not a Dress Rehearsal" – Grandpa's Mantra

14 Sept 2025 · 1 min

Watch on YouTube

1:12

In this brief YouTube interview, Brigid Titgemeier asks her 92‑year‑old grandfather to explain the mantra he writes on every card for his grandchildren: "life is not a dress rehearsal." He reflects that, after living over nine decades, he once imagined life would be endless, but now sees how quickly days pass. He stresses that each day is precious, urging people to make the most of it, develop positive habits, and infuse joy into everyday life. Brigid responds emotionally, noting that his words encapsulate his lived example and inspire many beyond his family. The conversation ends with gratitude and love.

Chapters

I'd like to talk about your life mantra, which is life is not a dress rehearsal.
I knew that was coming.
So this is the mantra that you've included on every card that you've given all of your grandchildren for every birthday and Christmas, and something that you continue to reiterate, so I'd love for you to share. What does that mean to you?
When you've lived 92 years, or close to it, 91 and a half, you think that life is going to go on forever when you're young. But. But Even at age 92, you realize how fast those days have gone. And each day is precious, so make the most of it, because it's not going to come back the same way tomorrow. So whatever you do today also develops your habits for what you're going to be doing lifelong. And so it's extremely important to make the most of each day. Don't waste them. Have fun, have some joy in your life and live a long life.
Yeah, I love that. That, like, makes me tear up because I feel like that is the summary of how you've lived and the example that you've provided for us and for so many other people that you don't even know who are inspired by you and your journey.
I appreciate the opportunity. Thank you.
Love you, Gramps.
Love you too, sweetheart.