The Gift of Elders
Our culture does not value aging. It demands a special effort to find reasons for gratefulness in getting old. But when we look at the gift that many old people are to younger ones, we find abundant reasons for gratitude. This message board offers a space to share both the stresses and the blessings of old people.

I find I keep meeting wise old 'elders' in young growing bodies, words of wisdom can ever so often come from the young.
- s, Italy   15 Mar 2010

I have not visited this spot in a long time. It does my heart good to be nourished by kind words, words of gratitude, of hope, of kindness. A few years back, I was regular visitor, was given great comfort by people from across the world as I dealt with great pain in regards my grandchildren. It helped me survive when depsair seemed a constant companion. So, I share this thought, a gift of sorts. In nature, in a sense of wonder, there is a link to our Source. However, when push comes to shove, kindness, above all else, kindness is what will get us through our pain, and it is kindness that gives our world the potential to heal. Twins with CP, Abby and Emily have shown me the Light, thank the Lord!
- Howard, North Carolina   24 Feb 2010

I will be 55 years old in July of this year. Surprisingly, the older I get - the less my age matters to me. In fact, most of the time, I have to ask someone else how old I am. There is something truly freeing to the spirit about growing older: We are more settled and know ourselves better than we ever have; peoples' opinions of us matter less and less, because we are comfortable in our own skins; We appreciate things more; Small things and accomplishments are more valued than they ever have been to us before; And living in the moment has taken on new meaning.
- Namaste_margie, Cd'a, ID USA   20 Feb 2010

I am learning so much about being the caregiver as I once were the cared for but now the tables are about to be turned. I am the youngest of two children to my parents and am looking for a way to help my dad as well as keep him and his two little dogs together but the thing is he is in Niagara Falls and I am in Chicago. I would love to get him here and care for him for as long as he is here on this earth but my sister has other ideas so I need some answers as to what to do? I mean if he can stay in his house all well and good but he has dementia and gets confused sometimes but all in all he is ok but goes in and out. I know that he won't be able to stay by himself eventually but need to find a happy medium for him and his care. If I take him into my home then will need someone to watch him while I am at work so he is ok. But my biggest challenge is that I am in an apartment and need to have a house for him and his little dogs, if I could get a down payment then who knows.
- Roseanne Silva, Chicago, IL   7 Feb 2010

I always swore I would never take care of my mother in her old age. Her mental illness and abuse left a horrid taste in the mouths of her children. Yet here she is, Parkinsons, Dementia...childlike. Finally on the drugs I'd tried to get her on all her life. I saw her smile and make a joke. I polished her nails for the first time. I am giving her the mothering she always wanted and never could give. I know there's a lesson here for me. Growth. But sometimes I look at her, and just wish she had been someone I could look up to and have as a loving guide. It's not to be. I am the parent, and have always been. But some sort of healing is happening in my soul. Acceptance. Compassion. Refusing to kick a dog when it's down. Despite the many kicks I've gotten from her. Amazing Grace, huh? I couldn't do it if it were not for the drugs.
- Kathy, PA   27 Dec 2009

I am grateful to have my father & mother alive and grateful tobe able to spend time with them.
- francesca, Missouri   23 Dec 2009

I am grateful for the elders who embrace their changing bodies and show me it is a blessing to grow old. I am grateful for the historical accounts of life before I existed. I am grateful for the elders who have taught me what it is to truly care for another human being. I am grateful for the elders who shared a part of their traditions with me. I am grateful for the elders who shared their recipes, who held me in their soft arms when I was a young child. I am grateful for elders. Our teachers, our mentors, our caretakers.
- Joy, Florida   22 Dec 2009

I am grateful for my 88 year old mother in law--"GRANDMA" who is undergoing surgery this afternoon. She is not afraid and is a great example today of living in the present.
- RBB, San Clemente   8 Dec 2009

Traveling with a mid-eighties couple to a spiritual retreat was a blessing for me as a mid sixties woman looking at my next birthday! Joy of living and interest in fall colors, children, singing, sharing food and experiences, keeping the faith and being honest were all grateful gifts these two freely and gracefully possessed and shared! Should I live so long, I want to be like that! Kathryn
- Kathryn, Massachusetts   13 Oct 2009

Blessings to Tiger, whom I miss. Caregiver
- Anonymous, Our World   18 Aug 2009

I thank my granny who is 83 years old for showing us the meaning of facing hardships in live and yet retaining that softness in the heart for all who come to her, with good intention or bad intention, and grateful to God for all that she reveals to us through her life, and grateful to God to bless me with loving parents/friends.Thank you so much.
- Nandini, Bangalore   15 Jun 2009

I want to say how thankful I am for my Dad, he will be 80 Saturday.. he has so many health issues , yet he perserveres.. He said he is here still.. for his family.. Happy Birthday Dad.. I love you so much!!
- Carol P, Canada   28 May 2009