It is amusing to observe the interaction between the two generation of ladies residing in our home – my Mother and my daughter.
My Mother with the dignified observations of a lady in her mid seventies would share her concerns about the attire of the current generation with my daughter. This would instantly begin a playful and humorous banter between them. A banter that would eventually see them call truce for the sake of their love and regard for each other.
Their famed playful quips at each other have even brought much amusement to guests who visit us! Guests fondly remark that “they will never forget the entertaining camaraderie between Grandmother and Granddaughter”.
My loving Mother has always been the parent whom I used to watch out for her temper. Today, through her conversations with my daughter, she conveys the significance of patience to my daughter. Prone to temper herself, my daughter today sees humour and understanding in many of the differences she has with her Grandmother.
We learn or cultivate patience through our interactions with the elderly. Patience that comes from knowing about the growing years of the elderly.
We develop our interest in the lives of our elderly family members as we hear about the anecdotes in their life. This interest is what eventually blooms into a sense of appreciation. An appreciation for the wisdom the elderly possess through their life experiences. It is an appreciation that also reflects tolerance because not all the experiences or knowledge of the elderly may be acceptable or practical from our perspective.
Our interactions with them not just help us become focused and sensitive about people and the environment we live in but it helps them to be active and energetic. By helping them cope with their life’s challenges, we not only help them to exist happier in a world that is so different from the world they were used to, we help them to enjoy a longer life.
With the world experiencing a technology explosion as far as our lifestyle is concerned, our patience to support and teach them to comprehend technology and enjoy its benefits would help the elderly to be more active and stay connected to a rapidly changing world.
Adaptability is a key for survival. We learn this principle as we move on in years. We learn about adaptability as we help the elderly lead a life of acceptance, with enthusiasm and with no regrets.
So like a “To Do” list, its an innovative idea to keep a “Well Being” list. This list highlights all the factors in our day that directly adds to our state of well being, eg: good health, companionship etc. Unlike the “To Do” list, the “Well Being” list is a list that has all the reasons for our happiness. It is a list that has greater significance as we grow older.
It is a reminder that there always factors that enhance the happiness quotient in our life – no matter what stage in life we are.
