RBWords - Volume 31 - Number 9: September 2018
Something to Think About
RBWORDS – VOL. 31 – NO. 9 – SEPTEMBER 2019
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT –
As I “elder,” I am the beneficiary of a lot of internet advice and humor about eldering. This includes health and relationships as well as spiritual advice. Two of the most prominent themes are “an attitude of gratitude” and “tell the people you love that you love them, and do it often.” Of course, there are also the inevitable “organ concerts” that occur when one meets a fellow elder, and the realization that “the old gray mare just ain’t what she used to be many long years ago.” The annual wellness checkup and other trips to medical treatment that seem to come more and more often are a reminder. Right now, the words, “See you next year!” are music to my ears.
Eldering requires spiritual homework as well. Oscar Wilde is supposed to have said, “Every saint has a past and every sinner has a future.” But when the past is a lot longer than the future, the effort to integrate the two for a good life in that shorter future is important. God’s mercy is important for both, because eldering means, as well, living neither in the past nor the future, but in the present, which takes daily effort. Finding patience with oneself requires, at least for me, frequent requests to God for same! My rather biblical perspective has me often quoting Psalm 71:18, “Now that I am old and gray, O Lord, do not forget me!”
But there is a lot of great old wine that can be enjoyed in the present. I am, as of this writing, at the home of a former student parishioner at the U. of Az, whom I met when she was a freshman 40+ years ago. I baptized her son 30 years ago and will baptize her grandson now. To have friends of 40 years or more is a great spiritual wine that I am able to enjoy. I also enjoy the students who are part of the campus ministry where I reside. It’s as close as I can come to being a grandfather! Another student friend, who is preparing to become an occupational therapist told me she will do what she can to make sure I stay in good shape for whatever years remain for me! With faith and friends, an attitude of gratitude is easier, and I make sure to tell them that I love them! IT’S SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
It Has Been Said
God, you have taught me from my youth; to this day I proclaim your wondrous deeds. Now that I am old and gray, do not forsake me, God, that I may proclaim your might to all generations yet to come.”
From Psalm 71:17-19