Go with the flow: 101 Lessons from Grandmother “Gigi”
In loving memory of Gigi (1922–2023)
"When you move with life, life is the flow — and you are the flow of life."
One year ago today, I lost one of my greatest teachers. My grandmother Gigi didn’t have formal education, as she would tell you herself, but she possessed the kind of wisdom that only comes from living fully through a century of changes.
At 101 years old, I recorded an impromptu conversation with her thanks to my daughter Alexis’ nudge and steady hand. During this precious interview Gigi shared stories that continue to shape my understanding of resilience, adaptability, and the process I continue to share–STOP & FLOW.
The Miracle Mindset
“There’s a million miracles that happen every day, but people don’t realize,”
Gigi told me in our final recorded conversation.
This simple observation encapsulates how she moved through a life filled with both immense challenges and unexpected blessings.
Born in 1922 to Italian immigrants, Gigi’s family story began with her mother’s courageous journeys across the ocean. As a young woman, her mother traveled repeatedly between Italy and America, sometimes bringing others seeking opportunity in the New World. Despite pressure from her parents in Italy to remain there, she fought through the legal channels necessary to return to America with her children.
That spirit of determination became a family legacy.
Learning to FLOW When Life Demands It
Gigi lost her father as a young teen. A simple appendicitis became fatal without access to antibiotics. As one of nine children, she watched her oldest brother Victor step into the role of provider and protector.
Years later, history painfully echoed when her own husband died of lung cancer in his mid-50’s. With little savings and no formal career, my Grandmother carried on with the kind of grace I pray for daily. Whatever you are going through, the world needs you. She could have given up.
Instead, she did what STOP & FLOW teaches:
"I knew I had to get a job," she said, matter-of-factly.
No self-pity. No resistance. Just clear, grounded awareness of the next right step.
When friends suggested she apply at a local bank, she took the leap. Though there were no immediate openings, the bank called her back days later with a temporary offer — one that quickly became permanent.
“That’s where I found my luck in my life. That’s why people showed up in my life,” she reflected.
I call that FLOW.
The STOP & FLOW Connection
In my work with recovery and wellbeing, I now recognize that what Gigi modeled was the embodiment of STOP & FLOW:
🛑 STOP — She paused to acknowledge reality, even in heartbreak. She didn’t deny her loss or sugarcoat it.
🌊 FLOW — She moved with what life presented, learning new skills, accepting help, and staying open to possibilities.
“You attracted them, Gram, because you always move with life rather than resisting it.” I suggested.
Her humble response?
“I don’t know.”
I do.
Observing Light Beings Along the Way
Gigi often referred to “angels” who showed up at critical moments. She shared several over the years. [Listen to my full interview with her here]
The doctor who lost his license for going “the extra mile,” and helped her through a difficult pregnancy when insurance wouldn’t cover it
Her sister-in-law who carried a baby to term after multiple miscarriages — thanks to this same doctor
The bank manager who created an opportunity when one didn’t exist
The colleague who fought for Gigi and ensured she kept her insurance benefits
These weren’t coincidences. They were the outward expressions of passion, compassion, luck, and longevity being given a place, from inside people and inside time.
Creating New Systems from Ancient Wisdom
Gigi never used words like resilience or mindfulness. But she lived them.
Her way of being reflected what modern systems now teach:
✅ Accepting reality as it presents itself
✅ Taking practical action even when it seems to defy logic
✅ Staying open to support and unexpected relief
✅ Finding gifts in challenges, treasuring new truths
✅ Moving forward with little expectation and minimal if any, looking back
These are the very skills I’ve had the privilege of accessing with others through the STOP & FLOW process. I’m not sure what the future holds —I hold hope.
What Might "Be Like Gigi" Suggest?
As our conversation ended, I joked, “Maybe I’ll write a book called Be Like Gigi.”
She laughed and added, “Go with the flow.”
One year, with you Gigi. And your wisdom flows stronger than ever.
💬 How have the elders in your life taught you to navigate challenges?
I’d love to hear your stories — share them in the comments or reply to this message.
🎧 Listen to the Episode
This conversation in FLOW with Gigi is one of the most important I’ve ever shared. It’s tender, funny, and wise wellbeing— full of quiet power and practical grace.
🌟 Listen to the episode now
🕯️ Light a candle for someone you love.
📖 Share — or even record — a great story with your team or loved ones.
📣 Start a conversation about rituals, resilience, and the miracle of simply being present.
Be well,
Kristin O.