An Ohio family leader imparts 11 life lessons to her cherished grandchildren.

Grandmother and mother emphasizes the importance of faith, family, kindness, and humility.

An Ohio family leader imparts 11 life lessons to her cherished grandchildren.
An Ohio family leader imparts 11 life lessons to her cherished grandchildren.

Patti Garibay, the founder and national executive director of American Heritage Girls, based in Cincinnati, Ohio, is imparting the 11 lessons she wishes for her 11 grandchildren to learn in life.

In 1995, Garibay founded the faith-based American Heritage Girls in Ohio, expressing frustration with how a scouting organization was handling matters of faith and culture.

Her Christian leadership group for girls was established with a scouting focus, with its initial members consisting of fourth-grade and fifth-grade girls.

"In her book, "Why Curse the Darkness When You Can Light a Candle," she asserts that parents have a divine duty to be aware of their children's education."

In all 50 states and 15 countries worldwide, there are troops today. Girls aged five to 18 engage in outdoor activities, service projects, hands-on badge programs, and more, as she informed Planet Chronicle Digital.

Patti Garibay
Patti Garibay, founder and national executive director of American Heritage Girls, a scouting-type leadership program for young women, has shared 11 insights after "searching for the meaning of life on this Earth." (American Heritage Girls)

She shared her 11 life insights, keeping her beloved 11 grandchildren in mind, which encompassed faith, family, relationships, and more.

The search for the meaning of life is a common experience that each person must undertake to discover and own their own purpose. For three decades, I searched for this purpose on Earth, and I found it in loving God and His people. This expression can serve as a guide for all decisions, ensuring that life has great purpose beyond one's time on earth.

Always express gratitude and operate from a place of abundance, knowing that the Lord will provide all that we need.

Our perception of time differs from the Divine's, and life is a lengthy journey. Our current predicament is but a fleeting moment. When making crucial decisions, consider their long-term effects. This current challenge will become a valuable lesson for personal growth in the grand scheme of your life.

Patti Garibay
"Life is a long game, and our current crisis is only for a moment," said Garibay. "Make important decisions through the lens of impact over time." (American Heritage Girls)

4. Faith is crucial for mental well-being. Engaging in prayer and worship can help us shift our focus from our own desires to our divine provider who meets all our needs. As Blaise Pascal stated, "Everyone has a God-shaped void within them."

5. Cherish relationships and kinship. It is no error that the family structure was created by God for our growth and prosperity. Do not disregard it; do not dismantle it. Strive to comprehend and appreciate the disparities we possess and the bond we share as companions and kin.

"Be grateful for the differences we have and the unity we enjoy as friends and family."

6. Be generous by sacrificing for others and reaping the blessings of God-given altruism. Give generously of your time, talent, and treasure.

American Heritage Girls - Patti with grandkids
Garibay is pictured with her husband and her "11 beloved grandchildren."  (American Heritage Girls)

Humility is a virtue that recognizes one's uniqueness and value as a child of God, while also acknowledging that no person is superior to another. It takes greater courage and strength to be humble than to be arrogant and boastful.

8. Crave to acquire knowledge and possess a humorous outlook. Acquire new information daily. Nurture and enrich a sense of curiosity, regardless of your age. Recognize the beauty that surrounds you. Do not take yourself or others too seriously. Embrace life - it's a precious gift! Tomorrow's struggles may bring forth tomorrow's happiness.

"Enjoy life — you only have one!"

9. Treat life with reverence. Life holds value at every stage and in every age. Life originates from God and is sustained by God. We are inextricably linked to our Creator, and without this recognition, we are merely mortal beings whose purpose is determined by our current emotional state.

American Heritage Girls outside with banner
Girls who participate in the American Heritage Girls scouting-type leadership program enjoy outdoor activities as well as service projects and badge programs. The organization is one of the largest of its kind and has been around since 1995.  (American Heritage Girls)

Your God-given purpose may take time to discover, but recognizing your gifts and following your passion can help you find it.

Instead of focusing on a career that pays well or offers prestige, seek a vocation that aligns with what God is calling you to do. Look beyond your natural talents and abilities to discover your true passions and pursue them.

Rewritten: "Life is a journey, not a destination."

by Maureen Mackey

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