Live long enough, and you realize life is filled with different stages or phases. It appears I have crossed into a new season of life.
Life’s Many Stages
Everyone loves that moment when a baby suddenly realizes there is a world to explore. Their eyes open wide, and rooms are often filled with smiles and laughter.
When Joseph entered kindergarten, he was ready to go. He had watched the school bus drive past our house with anticipation for quite some time. Nancy and I could barely keep up as we walked him to the corner for his first bus ride. We had entered a new phase of life.
As dementia slowly robbed mom and dad of their memories, I shifted from son to caregiver. Together we entered a new phase of life. Dad would consistently apologize for needing help. I reminded him that a few years ago, I was the one who needed help, and he always stood by me. I was simply returning the favor. It always makes him smile when I talk that way. Working together to navigate the different stages and phases of life.
My New Phase
It appears I have crossed into a new phase or stage of life. There have been different signs that I have crossed into a new season.
Sign One; people now hold the door open for me as I approach a building.
For the past six months or so, I have been using a cane. Neuropathy has left me with little feeling in my feet. The cane is an added sense of security. No, I am NOT a fall risk.
These “door holders” see me coming, step out of the way, and smile politely while ushering me into the building. I appreciate their kindness.
Just this week, on my way into chemotherapy, a woman at least ten years my senior held the door open for ME! You can see I am wrestling with going gracefully into this new stage of life. [Read more…]
