The Gift of the Aged | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Relationships

The Gift of the Aged

The stories of their pasts highlight our present.

18
The Gift of the Aged
Huffington Post

As children, we tend to not understand the nurturing yet independent nature of the elderly generation. Like many things in life, we expect them to be there whenever we desire or need their presence. They'd bandage our wounds, fight our battles, and love us no matter what crazy things we got into. All of this, for nothing in return except love and respect. Now that I am older and much more schooled in the ways of the world, I see them as much more than aging human beings. Their wise spirits bring history back to life.

One set of my grandparents is deceased, and not a day goes by that I do not wish I could sit down with them once again and hear the vivid tales of their distinctive youth adventures. Both of them lived busy and wholesome lives, and they worked hard to make things pleasant for each other and their family. I learned a very important lesson after they both passed away—embrace as much time as you can get with certain people because they aren't going to be around forever.

Ever since having this obvious epiphany, I realized that it was important for me to spend as much time as I could with my other grandparents, even though I already visited them at least once a week. During a good week, I try to see them about three or four times just to check up on them and make sure that they are content.

It makes me sad to think that so many elderly people in this world are neglected and lonely, especially those in assisted care facilities. A good family friend who is pushing 100 lives in such a facility. Her care is good, but she does not get the outside attention that she needs. Her family is limited, and her friends are in the same position as her. I have an awful lot of respect for this woman, and I also realize that without the love and care from outside sources like my family and I, her life would not be as bright. The elderly need our devotion and acceptance more than you'd ever imagine.

As I go off to college, I realize that I shouldn't have taken for granted those people in my life who aren't always going to be around. You forget how much they each mean to you until it is time to leave them. I'm going to miss helping my grandma navigate her iPad, my grandpa talking about the book he's writing, and the elderly woman I know holding my hand and telling me how special I am. I know that they will be right where I left them when I come home, but there is something so nice about having quick access to their wisdom and kindness. As I grow old, I hope I can be just as strong as these special people in my life. Whether they are near or far, don't forget about your elders. Without their guidance and unconditional love, none of us would be where we are today.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
friends
Photo by Elizeu Dias on Unsplash

If I have learned one thing in my lifetime, it is that friends are a privilege. No one is required to give you their company and yet there is some sort of shared connection that keeps you together. And from that friendship, you may even find yourself lucky enough to have a few more friends, thus forming a group. Here are just a few signs that prove your current friend group is the ultimate friend group.

Keep Reading...Show less
ross and monica
FanPop

When it comes to television, there’s very few sets of on-screen siblings that a lot of us can relate to. Only those who have grown up with siblings knows what it feels like to fight, prank, and love a sibling. Ross and Monica Geller were definitely overbearing and overshared some things through the series of "Friends," but they captured perfectly what real siblings feel in real life. Some of their antics were funny, some were a little weird but all of them are completely relatable to brothers and sisters everywhere.

Keep Reading...Show less
Sorority Girls
Owl Eyes Magazine

College is a great place to meet people, especially through Greek life. If you look closely at sororities, you'll quickly see there are many different types of girls you will meet.

1. The Legacy.

Her sister was a member, her mom was a member, all of her aunts were members, and her grandma was a member. She has been waiting her whole life to wear these letters and cried hysterically on bid day. Although she can act entitled at times, you can bet she is one of the most enthusiastic sisters.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

10 Reasons Why Life Is Better In The Summertime

Winter blues got you down? Summer is just around the corner!

457
coconut tree near shore within mountain range
Photo by Elizeu Dias on Unsplash

Every kid in college and/or high school dreams of summer the moment they walk through the door on the first day back in September. It becomes harder and harder to focus in classes and while doing assignments as the days get closer. The winter has been lagging, the days are short and dark, and no one is quite themselves due to lack of energy and sunlight. Let's face it: life is ten times better in the summertime.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

10 Things That Describe You and Your College Friends

The craziest, funniest, and most unforgettable college memories are impossible to create without an amazing group of friends.

238
College Friends
Marina Lombardi

1. You'll never run out of clothes when you have at least four closets to choose from.

2. You embrace and encourage each other’s horrible, yet remarkable dance moves.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments