Aging Gracefully

We have just returned home from Lafayette, Indiana and from celebrating my mother-in-law’s 100th  Birthday! The party last Sunday was a big success! The birthday card count as of today was 203!  Many thanks to each of you who responded to my invitation to send greetings. She has had a practice of sending birthday cards to friends and family for many years, and continues that tradition to this day. That in part is why it was so meaningful for her to be on the receiving end for her 100th birthday!   

We have been playing catch up after being gone for a week, but I have also been reflecting on how my mother-in-law has handled growing old so gracefully and the life lessons I have learned and observed from her. She is the most gracious lady I know. She has a strong faith and lives her faith fully each day. She stays active, and attends many scheduled activities, including exercise classes and Bible study, even on the days when she may not feel like it, because doing so usually makes her feel better. She is thoughtful, considerate and always looking for ways to bring good cheer to others who live in her residence. She is generally positive, and rarely complains, even though many health problems have created limitations and adjustments have been challenging. 

 

I could say much more, but I think my mother-in-law has captured the essence of what a growing old gracefully lifestyle involves. Aging does cause us to rearrange priorities. Sometimes though, it is the simple things of life that are treasured, like waking up in the morning, watching the sun rise or set, and taking advantage of the opportunities each day offers. I have learned many lessons from those more senior to me. But the most important thing I have learned is not only a guiding principle, but a statement of faith: Take life one day at a time in faith, one step at a time if necessary, and God will provide for all the tomorrows yet to be.