Be the Best That We Can Be

Bren Sheriff
Bren Sheriff


Be the Best That We Can Be

As we move toward the celebration of Christmas and prepare to close the book on 2025 to welcome the new year of 2026, many of us naturally grow more reflective. These two seasons carry lessons that meet us right where we are: Christmas calls us to honor God’s gift of life, and the New Year urges us to care for that gift with greater intention. It is the perfect moment to pause and consider how well we are tending to our physical bodies—because although we are living longer, too many of us in the Black community are still not living healthier.

We know the statistics. Black life expectancy still lags behind that of White Americans, especially for Black men. Every year, experts point to a familiar “lack of…” that shapes our health. But in this season of hope and renewal, I want to shift our attention to what we can do—choices that strengthen our bodies and honor the lives God entrusted to us. Too often we recognize a problem but never create or follow a plan to change it.

Caring for this gift from God called life starts with preventive habits. Just as we prepare our homes for Christmas, we must prepare our bodies for long life. Annual checkups, screenings, blood pressure checks, and dental visits give early warnings long before chronic illness sets in. Medicare and most insurance plans cover these preventive services at no cost, making them simple acts of good stewardship that often add years to our lives. You know the saying: “A stitch in time saves nine.”, it certainly applies if you believe in another saying, “nip it in the bud.”

This season also highlights connection—something we need from our healthcare providers as well. Your physician or dentist should listen, respond, and explain. If they don’t, the new year is the right time to make a change. Bringing a trusted person to appointments, asking questions, and reviewing lab results through patient portals can help you to better understand “what condition your condition is in”, thus it will put you on the road to better care, thus experiencing fewer emergency room visits ---- a blessing for both your body and your budget.

Holiday tables are often full of rich foods, but even here we can practice mindful gratitude. You don't need to make drastic adjustments to eating for longevity; it starts with making intentional choices—like switching sugary drinks for water, choosing green vegetables over starchy ones, and preparing straightforward homemade meals.  Better eating habits reduce chronic disease and preparing these healthier meals at home can also reduce food costs.  It’s a win win for you.

Movement belongs in this season, too. A daily walk, light stretching, or even dancing— “Where dem fans at?”—keeps energy up and joints loose. Tidying up our homes can be turned into a daily exercise routine, one of the easiest ways to improve long-term health. It will put pep in your step and slide in your glide and keep your home guest ready at all times.

I don’t know about you, but after a year that felt like a roller coaster ride for many of us, tending to our mental well-being is essential. A few minutes of meditation, deep breathing exercise, journaling, or stilling mind and body can ease stress that silently harms the body. Take the time to soothe your mind and reset your body despite the stress you may be encountering. “…know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

Finally, in the coming new year, we should review and perhaps update medical information and documentation. A simple personal health file—with medications, diagnoses, doctors, insurance cards, and healthcare powers of attorney (POA)—keeps everyone prepared for emergencies and prevents unnecessary delays in treatment, frustrations, fault finding, and overall confusion --- it assures that your family is informed about your health conditions, current care and what your wishes are for future care.  Specifically include your wishes on being resuscitated and/or receiving life support in your POA. Get your stuff tight and right.

Christmas reminds us that life is a sacred gift. The New Year reminds us that every day is a chance to treat that gift with care. As we enter this season of reflection and renewal, may we commit to strengthening the bodies God has given us—so we can live longer, live healthier, and continue living life with purpose and joy---- being the best that we can be. 

My best to you and yours,

Bren Sheriff, CSA

THIS WEEK’S QUIZ : I’m asking for your help by responding to this brief survey: As you look ahead, which concerns you more—your physical health or your financial well-being? I look forward to your responses.

Answer to last week’s quiz: If someone has traditional Medicare and moves from their current zip code their coverage follows them anywhere in the United States. There’s no need to change plans because Part A (hospital) and Part B (medical) are federal programs.  However, if they are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan offered by a private insurance carrier, they most likely must switch to a new plan.  Consult with a certified Medicare agent for clarity.

For Questions or Help: 773-817-0601 or basheriff1@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The illustrations presented in this column are not, nor are they intended to be, legal, financial, or any other licensed professional advice, you should contact the licensed professional of your choice for advice on your individual situation.


Latest Stories

Latest Podcast

Stacy Davis Gates