The sister of an elder friend of mine passed recently. I joined a small gathering of family and church friends one hot, sunny morning to pay my respects.
I spent some time chatting with my friend’s daughter before the funeral service. She shared that her mother is now the last surviving child of her grandparents. I nodded in acknowledgment as we lamented the loss of many elders we looked up to over the years.
I am now at the age of the role models I identified early in my career and marriage. These individuals taught me that peace and contentment are far more valuable than dollars and cents. I carefully watched and endeavored to imitate their example. Now well advanced in age, those who remain of that generation are in the twilight years of life. As I enter into the last year of life in my fifties, I look to them for insight into times that for me are yet to come.
These dear souls are the epitome of living by faith. Although their bodies weaken with age, their commitment to God grows stronger. I find courage and comfort when I look across the church and see them in the seats they have occupied for years. On those more frequent days when their seats are empty, I realize this is a foretaste of days to come.
As I reflect on that recent conversation at the funeral home, I understand that I am now a member of “that generation.” Our elders are passing the torch to those of us now in our final trimester of life. Indeed, we are the role models now.
When the younger generations look at us, I wonder what they see.
Are they encouraged by behaviors they hope to emulate? Or do they wonder if we missed those days when kindergarteners learned to work and play well with others?
Do they perceive compassion and empathy? Or do they sense insensitivity and indifference?
Do they feel cared for? Or do they fear that we act today without regard for the consequences they will reap tomorrow?
With each passing day, I see things all around me that I cannot fix or change. Still, I wake up every morning with a choice. I can either wring my hands and mourn the “good ole days,” or I can help make my corner of the world a better place.
My Aunt Emma’s favorite Scripture, as quoted from The Living Bible, has become a favorite of mine as well.
"Teach us to number our days and recognize how few they are; help us to spend them as we should." (Psalm 90:12)1
Each of us has the potential to make a positive difference, to be a flower among the thorns and weeds. A friendly smile, a word of encouragement, or a heartfelt prayer can do wonders to lift a weary soul.
I intend to do my part to learn from my faithful examples and invest my days wisely.
Will you?
Copyright 2022 lifeatroomtemperature.com Sherry A Hathaway. All rights reserved.
1The Living Bible, copyright © 1971 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Foundation, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. https://www.tyndale.com/permissions