Aging

     Do you think about the aging process a lot? Everything is affected as we age: 
--our memories
--our physical flexibility
--our mental acuity
--our sleep
and so much more.
     I enjoy listening to conversations at the nursing home where Marvin resides. It makes me wish I had known these people years ago. I wonder about their life experiences, their jobs, their families. Where did they live? What did they love doing in their lives? 
     Some are absolutely delightful to speak to, very upbeat, funny, and interested in others. Like the man who is very physically limited---yesterday the aide said, "So is your food good?" He quickly replied, "No, it's not good---(pause)---it's GREAT!" 
     There's a gentleman who walks into the dining room with a walker, and stops at every table to greet other residents. He says, "Good afternoon, ladies. How are you today?" I think it's a highlight for them. One day after he passed by, a woman said to her tablemate, "That's my doctor...he's such a good doctor!" 
     We are taught as little ones to become independent and self-sufficient. As we get to the end-of-life events, we must learn to let go and ask for help. 
     Oh, boy, there's so much to learn, isn't there?

     What are you working on as you age?  A sense of humor? Compassion? Relaxation? Fretting and worry? Fear and frustration?  Let's help each other get old gracefully!