As I am quickly approaching the winter of my life I have often pondered the saying ‘The Golden Years‘. I have even said to family and friends, “What is so ‘Golden’ about growing old. As far as I can tell those advanced years come with alot of aches and pains! The bad knees, backaches, can’t see, can’t hear, thinning hair, bunions, age spots and arthiritis to name a few. And then there’s the mental decline, where you get lost in your own house, can’t remember for more than 30 seconds, and you start finding things in odd places. And there you have it…..The Golden Years!
This past week as I have been trying to clean out the four story house of my parents, I haven’t found any golden eggs but I have begin to have a glimpse of what is ‘Golden’. Although this house is full to the brim with everything imaginable, there is also a strong statement spoken here of simplicity, wisdom and values.
My mother loved her dogs, probably more than her kids. Millie Sue’s treat was cheerios wrapped up in a white napkin ready for treat time. I am finding these little white napkins containing cheerios everywhere. A simple gesture yet a symbol of love and kindness.
My step father clipped and saved newspaper articles that were important to him, as was learning about the events going on in the world. If you have an hour or two he would be happy to teach you about any historical event or share with you stories of his ancestors.
Old dishes and containers were not to be thrown away. (Nor have they been). The faded colors and bubbled plastic gives the item character. If it can still be used then you keep it. Rolling coins was something I remember helping with as a child. The kitchen cupboards contain a variety of neatly wrapped coins.
One corner of the patio still has a layer of birdseed that spilled from the bird feeders above. Watching my mom take the time to enjoy watching doves and other birds was something I will always remember.
These examples could all be considered golden moments that took place in our home. Even though I am just now recognizing a little about what those words ‘The Golden Years’ mean, I would have to say that part of it most certainly is about those golden memories of the little things that really matter. Maybe that’s why God made mortals to age and slow down long enough to see things clearly before they enter into the next phase of Eternal Life.
Look For Those Golden Moments!!!
by Tanya Christiansen