In today’s chaotic world, it seems we could all use a few words of wisdom.

I recently came across an article about Charlie Chaplin. One of his comments referred to the six best doctors in the world. I found those words of wisdom to be timely and upbeat. While pondering them, I, of course, related each of the doctor’s words to wine.

Let’s see how this goes…

Charlie listed the number one doctor to be the sun. Doesn’t a sunny day feel good and provide us with insight into the importance of light in our lives? Naturally, one must protect her or his self from too much sun, and we all can do that. The sun gives us life, and, with every new day, it gives us another chance to make the world — even our tiny corner of it — a better place.

Rest is the number two doctor. We must ask ourselves how our resting routine is doing for us. Being able to relax, sleep and hang out is critical to good health. If rest is difficult, find out the reason and somehow solve that dilemma. Find your place of peace.

Doctor number three is exercise. We must remain as active as we can be all during our walk through life. Stretch, bend, flex, lift and walk. A daily walk — or run if you can — is a perfect way to make this doctor feel proud of you.

Doctor number four encourages us to watch our diets. This doc stresses the importance of eating minimal amounts of processed foods, and to focus on healthy fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts and lean meats. Of course, this type of healthy eating can be difficult for some of us, but listen to the doctor!

Self respect is the mantra of doctor number five. In order to give respect, we must learn to respect ourselves. You are unique. You are genuine. You are special to others. Once we respect ourselves, we can than pass on that respect to others. They are unique. They are genuine. They are special to others. Enjoy this feeling of self respect.

The sixth doctor asks you to seriously embrace your friends. They are critical to your overall health. It’s through and with them that we can feel the sun, find rest, exercise together, teach each other to eat healthily and to help build self respect.

Likewise a glass of your favorite wine will help brighten your day, allow you to relax, remind you to not only relax but to exercise, eat and drink with restraint, build self respect by respecting the wine and remind you to meet with your friends for a tasting event.

Mr. Chaplin was wise. Let’s follow the doctor’s instructions for a better life.

As always, eat and drink in moderation but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!