The Answer Is... Reflections on My Life

January 2, 2021

Trebek was born in 1940, a member of the so-called “Silent Generation” before the baby boomers. His simple stoicism is marked by consideration for others, enjoying a little fun, and lots of hard work and taking care of business.

My life was not particularly exciting. I'm the typical product of my generation: a hardworking breadwinner who looks after his family; does all the repairs he can around the house; enjoys watching television and thinks a simple dinner of fried chicken, broccoli and rice is just fine, thank you very much.

I've shown up to work at the same job for thirty-six years and have lived in the same house for thirty years. I respect and like my colleagues, and have a family that I dearly love.

His expression of faith is the Boy Scout faith. There is a higher power, he feels gratitude toward God, and that’s about all he knows.

Am I a believer? Well, I believe we are all part of the Great Soul -- what some call God. We are God, and God is us. We are one with our maker. How do I know this? It's not that I know it. It's that I feel it.

When asked, “What’s your proudest professional achievement,” he said he had no idea. He writes, “I have never thought about my life in those terms. I just enjoy the moment I’m in. For me, life is a whole experience, not just a series of isolated moments.” I can certainly relate to this.

On technology,

I do not have a favorite app. I use my phone for something completely revolutionary. I make a call. I receive a call. I prefer simpler things in life.