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Monthly Mighty Mentor Article
NOW WHAT?
Not too long ago, one of our granddaughters asked us how we felt about being old. We were taken aback, of course, because we don’t think of ourselves as “OLD.” We explained that it was an interesting question, and we would think about it, and let her know.
According to statistics, we are old. We live in a culture that worships youth. Staying young is a billion dollar a year business. As persons of faith we have been called to modify the trajectory that reflects negative cultural attitudes toward aging.
Our granddaughter’s question made us do some reflective thinking, about our own aging. Not the simple passage of time, but about what has given us a fulfilling life.
Looking back at the course of our personal lives, we can say with confidence that we have been blessed. We have angels, who have silently steered and marked our life’s path. Friends and family have taught us to be intentional and give witness to living a gracious, generous and grateful life. Age represents the wealth of life experiences that shaped who we have become.
While we still have the opportunity to work in God’s vineyard, we cannot waste time lamenting over what has been, or could have been, or worrying about what will be. We have been called to be bold and embrace God’s blessings and be deliberate about seeking out opportunities for ministry in our personal and community lives. We should be able to eat dessert every single day and twice on Sunday.
So, to answer our granddaughter’s question, old age is a gift, a privilege denied to many, so let’s not waste it.
Dr. Bob and Mrs. Ausma Mursch
Venice, FL
Ausmam@aol.com
Dr. Bob and Mrs. Ausma Mursch have served their Lord and their church for many years, in NY as well as in Venice , Florida. Ausma serves as the chair person for ACCA, (Ammerman Center for Creative Aging) and is a member of Thrivent’s Regional board.
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