At Riverstone, we know our residents carry a lifetime of experiences, stories, and lessons worth sharing. We are proud to introduce Wisdom Wednesdays, a new series where we sit down with a resident every two weeks and ask them a thoughtful question. Each conversation invites them to reflect on meaningful moments from their past or share advice shaped by their life experiences.
This series is close to our hearts because we believe in celebrating the voices and perspectives of our residents. Their wisdom is a gift, and we want to share it with not only our communities but also with families, friends, and anyone who loves hearing stories that inspire and connect.
You can watch each new installment in our Wisdom Wednesdays Playlist.
Wisdom Wednesday: Anna
For this week’s Wisdom Wednesday, Maplewood resident Anna reflects on her childhood and the lessons that have stayed with her throughout her life.
Anna grew up in a small town in Italy as the youngest of six children. Life was simple, and there were very few resources beyond electricity. Much of what the family needed was made, repaired, or done by hand.
Evenings were often spent working together — spinning, sewing, embroidering, or crocheting. If something broke, it wasn’t replaced; it was fixed. These routines were simply part of daily life, and everyone contributed.
Through those experiences, Anna developed a deep appreciation for working with her hands and a strong sense of independence. Being able to do things herself brought a sense of pride and satisfaction that stayed with her throughout the years.
Looking back, Anna recognizes that life was not always easy. But perseverance and believing in the future helped her continue moving forward.
When asked what advice she would give to younger generations, her message is simple: be true to yourself. Rather than worrying about what others are doing, she encourages people to focus on what truly suits them and trust their own path.
Through Wisdom Wednesday, residents like Anna share the reflections and life lessons that have shaped them — offering encouragement and perspective drawn from a lifetime of experience.
