The aging process means a lot of things. One of which involves the act of surrendering, rather than engaging in a moment. Maybe we’re meant to be more of a witness to life as we tick off the years. Or perhaps, we remain aware but not too quick to correct a situation that we see our loved ones, whether it be family or friends, becoming involved in.
How many of us actually listened to our parents' advice when we were in those early adult years? We often remained respectfully considerate of an expressed opinion but then moved on to our own way of resolving a life issue.
Whether it was successful or not, it was our way of feeling a sense of accomplishment back then.
So how do we then enter into our elder years and allow our all knowing selves to “surrender” and become a witness to this world.
Here’s something to contemplate. Why not tap into that calm knowing that comes from within. You know that inner stillness that we’ve learned over time to access when there is a degree of chaos in our midst. Specifics would be endless here…so you choose the topic from your own viewpoint.
In our previous years, if we engaged in what we might refer to as resistance to an ideology, we need to realize that it might no longer apply to life as we know it now.
We can watch more; listen with an open heart and then realize that the old phrase still applies…
Everything old is new again but in the current form of what is being proposed.
Begging for an example? Okay, I hear you…
There is an undercurrent of decidedly uncomfortable differences in beliefs right now in the world.
Whether it is a politically motivated concept or of a faith based nature there seems to be a dividing line wider than the Grand Canyon. There’s an intolerability that prevents us from approaching a subject for fear of a spark igniting a fire that can not be put out.
Words are limited in these situations like never before.
Everyone takes immediate offense and shuts down and nothing seems to get resolved.
Don’t even suggest the inclusion of a response to a social media post that you might consider contributing to.
That is the kind of roadblock that is preventing us from having healthier discussions.
“Oh what’s the use…!” should not be how we feel.
We need to trust that they’ll find their way. THEIR way is the most important aspect of the entire story.
IF we’re asked, responding with words of faith will go much further than denial of their abilities to achieve their goals.
We can surrender to the moments we’re presented with and still maintain our dignity even if we’re faced with criticism.
We can concede that we did our best given the world that we navigated through.
Pat Larsen…is a syndicated columnist who lives, works, plays and prays in Greene County, NY. Please feel free to contact Pat with your story or ideas regarding your life path as an Elder. She loves to hear from her readership. Pelarsen5@aol.com
Remember to Subscribe!
0 comments:
Post a Comment