I remember joking with one of our senior adults a few years ago asking “is it true that when you were in school you never had to take history… because it was all current events?!” I still think that’s funny, but now I realize it could be said of me.
Monday (6.6.16) marked the 40th Anniversary of the Seaford Senior High School graduating class of 1976! No matter how fast you say it that is a long time ago. And yes it is true, people did wear platform shoes, elephant leg bell-bottoms, nehru leisure suits, and…well google it for yourself.
My point is that growing older is not an option, but getting “old” is. Let me repeat that, getting older is going to happen, but being old is a choice. I am sure we have all met people who defied all concepts of what being “old” is all about.
I am so thankful for the many wonderful people I have met and know who set an amazing example of how to stay young, relevant, productive and gracious. I can hear someone say “Yes, but…. You do not know my situation.” True, but I also see people thrive in spite of health challenges, financial limitations, family issues, regardless of their age.
I have seen those faced with severe physical challenges simply make the decision that this illness will not be what defines my life. I have seen others who accept the imposed limitations of aging but refuse to be limited in every area life. They continue to care about others, give of their time and energy to serve God and make a difference. They do not wait to be invited, courted or coerced, they initiate opportunities to engage with their peers, as well as others.
These “role models” continually seek to bless, demonstrate generosity, and show love. In doing so they model the overcoming presence of God to everyone they meet.. The examples of these men and women motivate, encourage and challenge me to do likewise. Here are a few observations about being this kind of “old” person:
A. Be Thankful. Start right off with being thankful for being alive. If you are living God still has purpose for your life. Get your focus off of what you used to be able to do and do what you can do now! Celebrate the victories you have now, remember they all come from Jesus.
1 Corinthians 15:57 puts it like this, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through ourLord Jesus Christ.”
I am so blessed to have the vivid picture in my mind of a senior gentleman who refused to allow age or physical challenges to impact his actions or attitude. He would show up to pray, serve, or just encourage with joy, zeal and gratitude for the ability to be there. I can remember saying to him “Brother, you do not have to be here. This is going to make you tired. He would reply, “I am going to get tired anyhow, I love being here and am thankful I get the opportunity.” I love this! What a great attitude and example. A spirit of gratitude will help determine whether you grow old gracefully — or just grow old.
B. Be gracious. Let’s be honest, no one likes a grouch. So, let’s make a decision now, No grouchiness allowed! To get to the point of being “old” means we have received a lot of grace. There have been a lot of times when people put us with us and our stuff. Now it is our turn to sow some of that grace into the lives of others. Demonstrate gentleness, be patient with others, be quick to listen, and always let your speech be filled with truth, love and grace.
C. Be Intentional. Connecting with others (especially those who are not “old”) will take some effort. The Bible clearly paints the picture that one of the traits of love is that it “initiates”. So, Initiate a conversation with someone. Move into their world a little. Granted, it is a scary place, but you can do it! It takes effort, an investment of time, even some risk. Hey, I am trying to practice what I preach. I am venturing into the world of “Social Media”. Seriously, I am on the Google Platform, have a presence on Facebook, tweet, moving into Instagram, and can now officially Snap a Chat… or something like that!
Try it, and maybe the next time someone writes one of these blog things they may do it with you in mind!
