When it all goes south...

This blog is inspired by a random thought that's been popping into my head a lot since I've started working at a care home for elderly women...and that is, fear of growing old doesn't have to exist!! I guess it totally depends on your fear. I mean, I'm not exactly looking forward to the aches and pains, or the emotional strain it could put my family through if I get Alzheimer's or something. But I know I used to fear the loss of dignity and independence. It's not a pleasant thought that someday we might not be able to (uncomfortable clearing of the throat) wipe for ourselves or cook or even walk without a walker and an escort. But the ladies I do this for at the care home are some of the most loved, appreciated individuals I know. Because of how closely we have to work with them, we get to know who they are very quickly and while we are helping them in ways they can't help themselves, they're teaching us about patience, understanding, love, and humble submission. It's like tapping into a power source of wisdom that you could never find anywhere else. It's also a great picture of how we need to humbly submit to God's will, since we can never help ourselves in ways He can.
Loss of dignity is an unnecessary fear. Anyways, what is dignity? It's not being able to take care of our own personal hygiene and wellbeing, it's the ability to accept our present situation, however dependent or independent we are, and to do away with stubborn pride that would keep us from being content.
These ladies have a lot of love to give. By not being focused on their "pitiful" situation, they are able to powerfully impact people like me who have a lot to learn.