RE: The ageing process.
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There's so much truth in this. In middle-age we witness our parents and older relatives in decline and that prepares us (or at least teaches us what to expect) for experiencing the decline ourselves. My Mom just turned 82 in June and during our last visit she was so much more mentally and physically fragile than she was just six months before. She's in denial and resisting the idea of assisted-living, in-home nursing aides, or moving in with my brother or I. She's falling a lot now and can't get herself off the floor. It's been frustrating and worrisome for us. After living through this experience with her I've decided that I won't be as stubborn in 20-30 years (God-willing). I can't even imagine how tough it would be to come to the realization that you must surrender some of your freedoms. Life is certainly an adventure in each of its seasons.
Thank you Eric, and I have been through all of that and then some more. Now that I am the last man standing by grace, I know that it will not be long for my turn. Thankfully I don't fear it, and in a strange sense I seem to be looking forward to it. A sad story about your dear mother, and I can understand about her refusal to move, as she takes comfort in her surroundings. In your case, it is tough to have to give up things as you age, especially if you could do it so well earlier in life, but that is just the sound of the gong, if you know what I mean. I don't want to sound dark and foreboding, as life is good and one just has to accept the changes.
!PIZZA
!BEER
I'm sorry to hear you feel it won't be long but I'm glad you don't fear it. Our mortality is so far from our minds when we're young. It wasn't until middle age that it even crossed my mind. At 55 I just want to wring out every bit of life from every day. I think my biggest fear is I won't get to experience everything I want to before it's my time. My brother and I try to allow my Mom freedom to choose, whenever possible, because she's lost so many other freedoms—driving, cooking, walking, etc. So far we've just tried to persuade her that it would make sense to change her living situation so she has more help. Her lease comes up for renewal in January and we hope she doesn't sign for another year. You're right, life IS good if we're in the proper frame of mind. We have to accept what it sends our way. Take care of yourself, my friend, and enjoy the weekend. P.S. Any updates about Lizelle?
I do agree with you as when we are young, age is the furthest thing from our minds. Your mom sounds like my eldest sister, as she also clung onto her house, and sadly when her daughter managed to move her into a frail care place, she simply upped and died. It was almost like she simply gave up on life, as she was a very private person. So, it's an issue that has to be managed with great care, but I am sure that you guys will manage to sort her out.
Lizzie is undergoing intensive medical procedures, and her sister-in-law will arrange for us to talk to her next week. As soon as I know we will give an update.
Thanks for your care and prayers and know that we are praying for you and your situation with your mom also.
Hope your weekend is good too.
I'm sorry about your sister! We definitely wouldn't want my Mom to go down that road. I think it would be best for her to move in with one of us. I appreciate the updates on Lizelle! She's become such a good friend over the years but hasn't been engaging much with me over the past 8-9 months. When she stopped posting altogether I feared the worst. Thank you! I appreciate the prayers. Take care.
I only mentioned my sister to make you aware of how delicate your situation is with your Mom, but I think you know that. If she has to move it will indeed be a great thing if she moves in with one of you. I have seen the correspondences between you and Lizelle on the posts, and I think that she likes and respects you very much. As I said, as soon as I know more about her condition, I will let you know and I will tell her that you send your warmest regards.
Thanks. You also take care.
!PIZZA and !BEER
Oh yes, I realized that. I appreciate the perspective—navigating all this isn't easy. If you have a chance to get a message to her please let her know I'm thinking of her. She's always been so kind and supportive to me—and many others! Thank you my friend. I wish you a wonderful week!
Yes, I thought that you would. Not to worry about my mention of you to Lizzie, I will most definitely mention you love and prayers to her.
Hope that your week will also be good.
!PIZZA