Valuable, Not Invisible

When I worked with the seniors at the Owasso Community Center, it was some of the best experiences.  Sadly, some of the saddest experiences, too.  I concentrated on the personalities and the stories and the wisdom these beautiful souls have (had, because most are all passed on.)

Their experiences and their life stories gave me hope and faith in humanity.  Most were of the “Greatest Generation,” and they endured some of the most challenging times, and yet, all had strength and attitudes that kept Jan and I inspired.

Yes, they had many stories, and sometimes they would come back to the office in the afternoon and re-tell the stories they had shared that morning.  My door was always open, and there was a welcoming chair.   I never told anyone to leave.  

Jan, the director of the CC (and my best friend), had an office next to mine, and as she said many times, “Pat, you have a permanent sign on your forehead that says, “Yes, I will listen for hours and hours.” 

So many times, I did it because they had no one else to talk or share stories with. Even if they had children who lived in Owasso, there sometimes was not much contact.  Even the one sweetheart I loved so dearly, Miss Virgie.  She lived with her daughter, but I think she craved for someone to listen…again to whatever story made her day easier to endure.  Virgie didn’t say much, she played games and laughed and smiled a lot!  She was one of the fortunate ones, and when she told me about being invisible, it was not even about her, it was about a friend who had no one to listen.

Whenever an older person tells a story or experience, and they tell it, again and again, the reason is more about the importance or significance.  Sometimes it’s because of memory problems, but not always! 

Remember, the years of experience your older friend or relative has!  They have so many bits of wisdom in the middle of those stories.  But, most of all, remember they have a precious soul showing you love because they find you important enough to impart their story with you.  Be present, be kind, be a loving soul who loves other loving souls.