We all love children. Their wide eyed innocence touches us and we find their prattle cute and appealing. Their need for care instantly evokes a parental instinct within us and we rush to protect them.
This article is not about children though it may as well be for the two are very similar in their needs and requirements.
I would like to talk about our old amongst us. Wizened people with years of experience but carrying a frailty with them that requires tender loving care. Their ability to bear pain reduced, their mental and physical faculties diminished, they are as much in need of care as babies are.
Remember how you held your younger ones' hand as they struggled to learn to walk; well, don't forget when it is time to hold an elder's hand as he or she hobble unsteadily with their canes. Don't forget when it is time to lend them a hand to carry things that are heavier than they can manage. Don't forget to regale them with anecdotes and stories of daily living just as you tell bedtime stories to your kids. Don't forget to joke and laugh with them. Don't forget to rub their feet with balm when they hurt; remember the salve you applied to your children's hurts? Most of all don't forget to be gentle with them. Gentleness and patience is all they need, just like little children.
What the old most need is someone to talk to, someone to listen to, some companionship, somebody to give them a hug, somebody to help them carry out their daily chores as need be. Help them cross the road safely, give them your seat in the bus or train, allow them to take your place in the checkout line at the supermarket, slow down your car when you see them crossing the road ahead.
Excuse them if they are sloppy at the dinner table – you thought your child dribbling food was cute, didn't you? They may not remember things as clearly as when they were younger; help them find their glasses even if they be seated atop their own head. Speak up so they may hear, hold them if they shed a tear. Find time to sit with them amidst your daily rush. What the elderly most dread is loneliness; an emptiness that seems to swallow them. Make time for them.
From today go and check up on your grandparents and your elderly neighbour. Think about how you may contribute to an old age home. Make the aged in and around your life as comfortable as possible. It is all about care. You could brighten up their day just by being there for them. Let us actively add a warm glow to their sunset years. While aging is inevitable, growing old can be an easier process if we make it to be.
Toothless smiles speak the same language as pearly ones. Even if the vision may have diminished, twinkling eyes say the same things always. Let our warmth and care add joyful glee to our aged just as they bring joyful gurgles from our young. Let wrinkles and twinkles mean the same thing.
By: Dr. Ripal K. Kotak
Aano bhadra krtavo yantu vishwatah.(- RIG VEDA)
"Let noble thoughts come to me from all directions"
REGARDS
Miss.Shaija Vallikatri Bhaskaran
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