GROWING OLD Growing old is a blessing (Isa 65:20). Though a bit scary, like a flower, we all begin to wither at some point in time. Most times, people prefer to discuss issues or topics like - Puberty - Marriage - Business/job success, etc. But not growing old. Wonder why! After all these, of course we start to age so we need to also understand the ageing process and how to manage it. - The skin starts getting wrinkled - Menopause with its associated side effects like hot flushes, weight gain, etc. - Sometimes hair starts falling off - Dementia( a brain disorder that most often affects the elderly associate with forgetfulness, temporary confusion or having trouble remembering a name or word) - Arthritis( inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain and stiffness that can worsen with age) - Complications of High Blood Pressure (HBP), Diabetes, etc. Nevertheless, old people are able to do amazing things at their age and flourish too (PS 92:14). In their old age, they have - Sense of Accomplishment: Older people often have a healthy sense of pride that comes from their accomplishments. This could be achievements from raising a healthy and happy child, being happily married, serving in defense of the nation, or retiring from a job in good-standing after years of dedicated service can be the foundation of a pleasant contentment in old age. - Wisdom: The words of a man’s mouth are as deep waters, and the wellspring of wisdom as a flowing brook (Pro 18:14). The aged are believed to be people of wisdom. Their wisdom is drawn from life’s experiences, interaction with their own parents, etc., which are exhibited in meetings, advice of a younger person, etc. - Provide sense of broader perspective: Growing old provides one a sense of broader perspective, and often makes people inclined to focus much of their efforts and energy towards a better society and creating a better world for future generations. - Calm and happier outlook: The old are happier than the middle aged. They are less stressed and are more comfortable being themselves. They deal with life situations both negative and positive ones more effectively. They have coping abilities and they have internal mechanisms to deal with hardship or negative circumstances. They also know how to manage their emotions because they have been through it all! - Consequently, they have the ability to spend time with loved ones. It is a great asset to them since the very busy period is over. So, don’t you think it’ll be a wonderful experience staying around the aged and taking good care of them knowing that we all will get to that stage in a matter of years? Its sheer joy to help the vulnerable and feeble man or woman to have fun and a peaceful ending (Exo 20:10). Having someone at their beck and call apart from their children is very much rewarding.