A reminder, spend time with the elderly

By JACQUELINE LUCERO

In the fast-paced rhythm of our lives, it’s easy to find ourselves entangled in the web of deadlines and responsibilities, often using them as shields to avoid spending time with our senior family members. We’ve all been guilty of uttering those familiar excuses, whether it’s the pressing work assignments or the never-ending to-do list that seems to hang over our heads. But perhaps it’s time to pause and reflect on the value of time itself and how we allocate it to those who matter the most.

Setting aside a schedule to visit our elders is not just a mere obligation. It’s a conscious decision to nurture the bonds that form the foundation of our family. Imagine the joy that lights up their faces when they know you’ll be coming—a simple promise that speaks volumes about the importance you place on your relationship with them.

As you enter their homes, be prepared to be greeted with a warmth that transcends time. In their eyes, you’re not just the person navigating the challenges of adulthood. You’re forever the eight-year-old kid they’ve witnessed growing up. Embrace this perspective with amusement, for in their eyes, you carry the essence of your younger self.

Repeating stories can be a form of storytelling that serves as a mechanism for our elderly to keep alive the memories that shaped their lives. Each retelling helps solidify these moments in their consciousness, acting as a way to celebrate and immortalize the significance of those experiences. It’s an act of understanding and acknowledgment that goes beyond the surface of repeated words, recognizing the profound value embedded in each repetition. From their perspective, these narratives are like well-worn threads in the fabric of time, weaving together a loving story that connects the past to the present. In patiently listening to their stories, you actively engage in the preservation of not just their stories but the emotional depth and context that make those tales an integral part of your shared history.

When spending time with them, share your innermost thoughts and accomplishments. You might be surprised by the pride that gleams in their eyes. To them, your journey is a testament to the passage of time and a source of fulfillment as they witness the fruits of your endeavors. Let their pride fuel your connection and deepen the roots of your connection as one of the leaves of your family tree.

In the depths of genuine conversations like this, one can unearth the profound insights cultivated by a person’s lifetime. Each shared story or perspective adds a layer to the intricate fabric of the human experience, weaving together lessons, challenges, and triumphs. Embracing these narratives means discovering hidden treasures—nuggets of wisdom that transcend the boundaries of time, resonating with universal truths. These exchanges not only enrich our understanding of others but also contribute to the ongoing tapestry of personal growth and collective wisdom.

In the rush of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the fact that just as we are aging and crafting our destinies, our seniors are aging too. Their dreams, once vivid and vibrant, may have taken a back seat to the demands of life. Take the time to uncover their unfulfilled aspirations. Encourage them to list down their bucket list items.

When the means permit, become the instrument that helps them cross out some of those long-held dreams. Whether it’s a simple adventure, a cherished experience, or a reunion with someone from their past, these moments become the jewels in the crown of their memories. 

In the continuous narrative of life, the threads connecting us to our elders are irreplaceable, so give them the privilege to parent you a bit when you are with them while they still can. This is one of their simple pleasures. Let them feel they are still capable and needed.

While the concept of growing old in other countries may evoke a sense of loneliness, let us not be blind to the similar patterns manifesting here in the Philippines. Loneliness knows no borders, and our responsibility is to keep our seniors happy while we still have the privilege to do so. Age, after all, is not our adversary in this endeavor—time is.

Let’s continue to weave these threads with intention and love for in doing so, we not only preserve the past but also create a legacy that transcends the boundaries of time. Cherish the moments, honor the stories, and let the echoes of laughter and wisdom reverberate through the corridors of your family's history.

PS: In fond remembrance of those loved ones we bid farewell to this year and the recent past, may our endeavors reflect the pride you inspired. May we evolve into improved versions of your remarkable selves, leaving behind a cherished legacy of love and kindness for generations to come.