We all know that we will get older. When we are young it seems so far away. We also think that we will be able to do the same things we did when we were young with the same gusto and vigor.
My mother just turned 70 years old this month. She is still pretty spunky. She does all her own housework and cooking and shopping and helping with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, etc., etc., etc....but she is slowing down a bit. She has her ailments and health issues. She knows her limitations, however, and does rest in between all this as she sees fit. I know the day will come when she won't be able to do all she does and will need help. I am preparing myself for that day. I know she won't ask for help until she needs it. I'm ready. It will be her turn to be taken care of. She has taken care of so many of us over the years.
On the other hand, my mother-in-law is 71 years chronologically. Physically, she's probably about 90 years old. She has been in the hospital for 4 days now and just came home this afternoon. She is very frail and until now was doing almost everything for herself. She does not want to give up her freedom or independence. She is somewhat stubborn in that area. She has "stuff" that she doesn't want to part with. She doesn't need this "stuff" as it has been in boxes and unused for years. Still, I can understand where she's coming from.
I'm sure that neither my mother or mother-in-law expected things to turn out the way they did. No one knows how old-age will be for them. I think we assume that we will be able to carry on as usual. I know from watching my family members that this will not be the case. I'm sure you all have the same experience in your lives. We just have to be ready to take care of the ones that took care of us for so many years...and do it with love and no bitterness and no complaining. That's what you do for family.
Well, I guess I won't have to take care of you because Papa does not age, and is as strong in his fifties as he was in his twenties. Probably in better shape to be honest, lol. But seriously, that's why I've tried to make healthy lifestyle changes so that I can hopefully take care of myself as long as possible, and travel and enjoy retirement years rather than watch them go by not being able to do much of anything.
Posted by: Ryan | November 25, 2008 at 09:04 AM
Thanks for the entry -- I have linked to your blog also, keep watching for the giveaway results. BTW -- I loved this post, very touching, you sound like a wonderful person with an equally great mom! Family is everything and family is really all we've got to count on in this life. Thanks again for stopping by!
Nancy
Posted by: NanjoDogz | November 20, 2008 at 07:30 AM