LIVES WELL LIVED by Carol Kaufman Segal

            Lives Well Lived is a film produced and directed by Sky Bergman, an award-winning photographer.  This is her first directorial debut.  The film consists of forty men and women, aged 75 to 100 years old as they impart their life experiences and thoughts about living a meaningful life after living through triumphs, personal tragedies, loves and losses.  Though many people in the world suffer much in their lives, it is the inspiration that these forty men and women offer us as choices for being able to live meaningful lives as we grew older.

                        There is so much joy in watching these people who are so vibrant and upbeat.   Quotes from just a few will of them will give you an insight into their attitudes and what keeps them “young”.  The following are but a few of the inspirational responses you will hear in answer to just one of the questions they were asked, “What is your definition of a life well lived?”

            “It’s not your numerical age.  It’s your biological age.  So think young, act young, feel young, forget the number.  Emmy Cleaves, age 83, Los Angeles, CA

            Happiness is a state of mind.  You can be happy with what you have or miserable with what you don’t have.  You decide.”   Dr. Lou Tedone, age 92, Sam :ios Pbos[p. CA

            “I look forward to the next hour, next day, and no plans.  I take what comes and absorb it as much as I can, mentally, physically, emotionally, visual, audibly, I drink it up.”  Botso Korosheli, age 93, Morro Bay, CA

            “Even though I’m 80, I still want to finish my PhD.  No matter what age you are, education never stops, you still keep learning.”  Rose Albano Ballestero, age 80m Nippomo, CA         

            Bergman’s inspiration for Lives Well Lived was her 103 year-old grandmother, Evelyn Ricciuti, who she began filming when she was 99 years old and still working out at a gym.  She never thought any of her friends would believe it!

            The film is playing at the Laemmle Monica Film Center, Town Center in Encino, and Playhouse 7 in Pasadena.  Running time is 72 minutes, in English, not rated.