The other day I was chatting with a resident who happens to be my old neighbor. We were talking about how she remembers me as a child, over 10 years ago. We laughed over the fact that it took us until now to get to know each other - we had lived mere steps away for over a decade! I enjoy being in her company - visiting her on my rounds has become a highlight of my day.
Recently she celebrated her 94th birthday. I told her I was in awe with her age and how much life she has experienced. After reflecting on my comment for a moment, she admitted that her life went by too fast, and that it's hard to grasp that everything is coming to a close. Her honesty and blunt statement really hit me. Although she ages physically, her mind hasn't slowed a beat. So with bittersweet acceptance, she acknowledges her truth.
When I'm 94, will I be able to do the same? Will I look back and wonder, "Could I have done more with life?" Or will I be content with everything I have done? Will I be able to accept the end when it is near? Her reflection draws the concept of life into a personal reality. When I look back, how will I want to remember my life?
I feel as if I receive more than I give. The quick conversations, the tidbits of truth, the life reflections - these are all moments of wisdom I am so blessed to receive.
My perception of the elderly has changed enormously. What is more unexpected is how my perception of life is changing too. For being a factual/scientific/by-the-books sorta person, I'm amazed at how much purpose I find in something that is entirely out of my mold.
What an unexpected blessing!
Cheers!
1 comment:
I'm honestly SO entirely happy for you that you are gaining so much 'life' from your job .... and I have no doubt either that you are equally blessing the seniors. What an incredible experience you are having this summer - nothing you could learn in a classrooom could come close!
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