Some day, we’ll look back on today with more perspective than we now possess. The good news is, it doesn’t take years or trials to gain perspective. We can glean much from those we know — and especially from our elders. By going through old photos together. Or asking Grandma what she learned about life from losing Grandpa. Or by hearing how Uncle Rupert ran a thriving company with nothing more than an eighth grade education.

The next time you have a few minutes, think through those in your life you’d like to learn from. Come up with a few questions you might ask or topics you’d like to discuss. Then, when you need a bit of wisdom or perspective, you’ll not only be ready, you’ll have someone to thank.