Oldies but Goodies.

My mom has loved the elderly population for as long as I can remember.  At church, she would often talk to little old ladies about their grandchildren or high blood pressure with a big smile plastered on her face.  My mom would often say that children could connect in neat ways with the elderly.  So, she tried to pass this love along to me and my sisters when we were kids by forcing us into nursing homes.  During our nursing home visits, Alyssa and I listened to the same stories over and over again, learned to knit, and sang hymns or nursery rhymes. 

My mom was successful in sensitizing us.  Alyssa and I both dearly love old people.  Anyone over the age of 70, I want to treasure.  They have lived long and have gained much wisdom.

While working on my undergraduate degree, I worked at a local nursing home during summer breaks.  I used to love helping the residents with their activities of daily living and learning each resident’s little quirks.  For example, “Charlie” may eat only strawberry ice cream.  “Sandy” may want to meet weekly to practice our Spanish after being a Spanish teacher for 40+ years.  “Beth” may love to show me the wedding dress she was sewing for her granddaughter’s wedding.  I loved being a part of their daily lives.

I especially enjoyed those elderly couples at the nursing home who would walk to the dining room holding hands.  I loved to watch them physically supporting each other.  They often had sweet conversations and spoke about the Lord’s faithfulness throughout their long life together.  Some of these elderly folks had worked hard on their marriages over the years and have cultivated fruitful, loving relationships. 

So, I hope to be like my mom in this regard.  When I have kiddos, I will be forcing them into nursing homes, making them listen to stories and sing songs.  So, they can appreciate and learn some of the same lessons I did.  The elderly still need community, love, and attention just like anyone else.