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Russel Smith is an 86-year-old mentor who has lived an adventurous life. I met him through a friend of mine who is also his caregiver. After hearing so many great stories about him, I thought he'd be a great choice for this project.

When I first talked to him, I asked about some of the coolest things he's done in his life. He told me he traveled around the United States on a motorcycle. When asked why he went on the trip, Russel laughed and said he “just wanted to get out of the house.”

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Russ has always lived life on his own terms. In his younger days, he found joy in cross-country running, testing his limits and building endurance through long miles on the road. As he grew older, that same drive for movement and freedom carried into new passions, like traveling. Nothing was in his way.

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At 86, Russel continues to share his wisdom with those around him. He reminded me to stay curious.

I asked Russ for one piece of advice, and he said, “Keep moving, because once you stop, life starts to pass you by.”

To me, moving isn’t just about physical activity like running or riding a motorcycle; it’s also about staying curious and trying new things.

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Russ's views on how society has shaped the aging process

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Russ's views on how society has shaped the aging process

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Russ believes that society often puts limits on what older people can do, expecting them to slow down or “act their age.” He thinks this mindset is too restrictive and can make people give up on their passions too early.

From his own life, Russ has shown that aging doesn’t have to mean stopping or becoming less active. He advises that society should value the experience, curiosity, and energy of older adults, rather than treating them as if their best years are behind them.