That equal 36,526 days or 5,218 weeks!
Since embarking on a second career in the older adult industry, I have had the pleasure of meeting my fair share of seniors. Many have become friends and some even (sadly) moved on to their “next stop.” The relationships have enriched me in many way and I am endlessly am amazed by the richness of each person’s life.
Last week my family and I went to my Aunt Helen’s 100th birthday party. Helen is one of my 88-year-old father’s older sisters. He has three and two continue to chug along. Seems the gene pool hints at longevity!
The 100th birthday party was a first for me. It was great to celebrate a wonderful woman but also to see so many family members that rarely have the occasion to gather. The planning for Aunt Helen’s 100th began years ago and as soon as I heard about it, there was no chance we’d miss such an occasion. So, last weekend, I loaded up the family and off we went on a 10-hour drive to St. Charles MO. I’d been worried my wife and kids might opt out due to the length of the drive but all held steadfast about making the trip.
The drive included it’s dose of unhealthy snacks and fast food. Bad coffee. That being said, the lure of seeing my father’s side of the family in force was very strong.
Once we arrived (we stayed, in force, in my cousin Sarah’s house…Thanks Sarah and Craig!) we all were treated to a buffet dinner and thrust into genuine family time. My brother from Houston was there. My father and step mom, cousins; aunts and uncles from Colorado, Utah and various points across the USA. One thing I noticed throughout all the commotion was the true sense of how valuable the time was. Not only with the entire family, but even more-so with the elders we broke bread with. It is all too easy to not savor each moment when so many moments abound. However, as one’s horizon changes, it is increasingly important to value the time you have.
So, as you go about your lives and come into contact with those elders you love, cherish the moments. They will never fade and you will forever be enriched by them.
Happy Birthday Aunt Helen!
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