Do you remember a time when you were trying to reach something for whatever reason? Maybe you were on a ladder and it just wasn’t tall enough. Or, you were leaning and stretching, coming so close but not quite able to grasp it. It was frustrating, wasn’t it?
My parents’ summer home in Montana was boarded up in the off-season so it had to be opened (or closed) which involved many tasks plus an element of hoping everything would function properly. There were times when just my Dad and I were there so we worked together. Being a daddy’s girl, I loved those special moments.
Fast forward to 2025. At the time of this writing, my son and his daughter are there now, opening the house together. My dad would be so pleased because it just goes on. I, too, am delighted. BUT…”Why isn’t it me up there? I should be there to help open the house.” (Pity party). Reality check: I had my turn.
My mom used to use the expression we’ve all heard, “Growing old ain’t for sissies.” It’s hard to realize and accept that your turn is over. You’re supposed to sit back and smile and not grumble about your part coming to an end.
When I thought about it, it seemed like trying to grab something. You’re trying so hard, but it’s just plain out of reach.
Has anyone else ever experienced this, or am I the only one who’s struggling to grow old gracefully?
“The children of Thy servants will continue and their descendants will be established before Thee.” (Psalm 102:28)
Understand completely. My turn is over with many things, but I have many wonderful memories and the joy of watching my children take their turn.
Oh Teri, a wise friend of mine once said as she encouraged her young adults with family, “this is their time”.
Thank you for sharing this realization that comes too quickly for some, or maybe most.
Amen 🙂 Treasure all the daily moments and memories!
I am getting to your blog very late this week. I missed reading it yesterday as had so much going on but I’m so happy to read it today. Wow can I ever relate. Still trying to figure it out. This too will pass and we’ll all be together again. Meanwhile. we have to figure out how to get there. It is a reach it seems. Maybe because it’s out of our control and that’s tough.
I’m feeling it! It’s hard sometimes, yet a blessing too.
Ain’t that the truth! There are some things I’m glad to have outgrown; but others that I miss.