When I was a young boy, I heard both my parents say we were wealthy because we had good health. I never understood until 55 years went by and so have many of my classmates’ funerals. One of my much younger friends called yesterday. He just had his physical, and the doctor wanted to load him with pills that really make you feel terrible. We had my “Uncle Jerry” talk, and for the next six months he is going to do what I did 15 years ago — change his habits. This morning, I had an 8 a.m. doctor’s appointment. My doctor asked how I had 7,000 steps on my Fitbit watch by 8:15 a.m. and my answer was I was walking at 5:35 a.m. this morning.

What is the big deal? I am not on insulin like they told me 15 years ago I would be for the rest of my life. Also, we talked about eating more yellow and green foods and less time at fast food places.

Life is about choices. I have been blessed with being healthy, and I think a sound mind, although my agents may question that last part. Yes, I have great genes. My mom is 94 and doing great, and if pop had not smoked, he might still be here.

Life is all about choices. My doctor told me this morning that I am in much better health today than 15 years ago, and today I spend $170 per month on medicine versus 15 years ago at $570 per month. Now for $400 a month savings, that is a seven to 14 days on vacation for this old country boy.

I am asking you to go spend a few dollars on a Fitbit and take charge of your health. If this old country boy who loves to eat can do it, you can do it too. We went to Gatlinburg this weekend and Louise could not believe I walked by a dozen fudge shops and never stopped. I was shocked too. In the old days, I would have tried them all just to see which one was best.