Growing Old

Old is subjective. 

When is one really old?

Is it age, appearance or attitude?

My aging parents are going through another phase of life. Though in reasonably good health they face the dilemma of safety and separation from their children. The children are also facing challenges. Do they leave the old folks on their own and let things run its course? Is it too naive not to allow fears cloud over them?

But how does one expect the old folks to uproot and adapt to a new environment? To leave familiarity and friends behind? Is it worth the effort to uproot? The practical question next is where do they live? With one of the children ? Or on their own?

While best practices are sought after, the impending lessons observed are the following :

• to meddle as little as possible in the lives of the younger generation
• to avoid highly opinionated moments unless opinions are requested
• to be able to adapt to all sorts of characters with light judgement
• to be generous and ready to make others happy too
• being old is not everything; being wanted is better
• create light moments all the time
• self importance is not to be high lighted and less still being demanding
• to accept and admit our physical disadvantages
• if ever one grows monstrous in the quest for dominion, we lose more
• grace is to be practised and practice makes perfect

Growing old needs a lot of skills and self control. It is easier said than done but nevertheless mandatory if we want to lead happy lives in old age. Some go through it with fewer perils; others may find the journey arduous. So it is good to observe and note some best practices. It's never too early to prepare ourselves for the impending journey ahead.

We are still seeking best solutions to my parents' challenges and hopefully our good God will lead us safely through. We are aware of God's reminder; to honour our parents in their old age. It is ultimately God's teachings that we refer to for right behavour. That children are to honour their parents and parents not to frustrate them. May we stay in the abundant guidance of our dear God.

This is a constant reminder :

We also pray for wisdom.