Why can't society see and appreciate the qualities possessed by seniors

by Tina Y. Gerber-McCurley

It's certainly been a challenging year for my husband and I. We both look forward to a fresh start with hope and anticipation. Consequently, as believers, we focus our eyes on Jesus.

Many people see an older person as broken, and they somehow need to be fixed! I will admit our bodies do change, sometimes suffer, and their parts no longer work like they once did!

Most seniors seem to begin to disappear into the background, and this is a growing problem. Seniors often feel invisible, due to societal perspective shifts, changes in personal social roles and responsibilities, or changes from health complications. Many people, whether family or friends, are busy with their lives. Often, those in other stages in life, in society, no longer value seniors' wisdom or experiences and fail to see a senior's full worth.

Thinking back on the long gone days of my youth, I realize, I witnessed things the kids of today will never understand or get to experience. However, the lessons which came with these are useful for others coming behind me in life. I find joy in remembering, and comfort in having lived in such an innocent time. The beauty of aging is also realizing how rich those chapters are and how much we carry with us. Those inconsequential moments are memories which can make a huge difference when connecting with others. Take the time to listen.

To me aging is understanding the seasons of change and growth. At times, we all feel we are facing insurmountable obstacles, so we are not that different after all. These obstacles in our lives, whatever they may be, can shape and form us and so contribute to who we are, young and old.

Keep your thoughts on Jesus because beautiful things can grow out of hard places. No matter how hard the task is, praise God through it all and as God sees the invisible, he may sneak some happiness or even joy through a door you didn't know was open.