When I was still in the first decade of my life, I met an old woman on one occasion, lying down on her bed with a bedpan nearby. I couldn’t grasp before what it’s like to be old (or be sick and old) and unable to relieve myself in the toilet anymore.
Now that I’m in the third decade of my life, I’m starting to think about the life transitions old people have to go through, such as isolation and sickness. And what used to be the norm for a young person might not be helpful for the elderly anymore.
Hence, I’m grateful for everyone who thinks deeply of the elderly. Because every one of us will eventually grow old, don’t we? And taking care of the needs of the elderly gives me the impression that life isn’t just about using all your vigor to attain your goals or have your needs met. It’s also about using that same resource to care for the elderly who have paved the way for us while they were still able.
jessa 