Lately, I have been working shifts in our community infirmary – a great learning experience, and, of course, a blessing! It's not often that I get to be with our elderly sisters, so I am enjoying this time with them.
My experience of working in an infirmary is probably similar to others. It has made me think of growing old, how some day I will be dependent on others to care for my basic, every day needs, and all the humiliations and frustrations that come with that. No one wants to lose capability and independence, to know that one's memory is unreliable, or that even though you know what you want, or what you're trying to say, others cannot understand.
The thing, though, about being with people at this stage of life, is you learn to live in the moment. Not much else matters. Oh, sure, there are tasks to be done in this work, but it's like you are in a new world order. There is only this elder's smile or tear, a whisper or plea to hear and decipher, the shaky hand reaching for a touch, a consoling grasp. You are drawn in, beyond yourself, to connect, to be fully present. And any time that happens, you are fully alive.
It always amazes me, to discover that, when people are most vulnerable, and seeming to be at their weakest, their presence, even their neediness are precious gifts to those of us who are often living for the next moment.
Live this moment...the fullness of God is here.