I Still Matter

Growing up on the beautiful island of Barbados, I never envisioned myself getting old, much less reaching eighty-two. I thought I would always be young and energetic, so I did not plan for old age. Now, here I am. Unexpectedly, old age knocked on my door, and before I could respond, it walked in, took up permanent residence, and refused to leave.

It has caused me to slow down and left me unable to do the things I once enjoyed. However, I try not to let it ruin my life. I have learned that the more involved I am in helping others, the less time I have to think about myself. This past Easter God gave me the idea to call some of my retired friends and former colleagues to let them know I was thinking of them and to tell them that even in their senior years, they still mattered. Some had downsized and moved away to be nearer to families. They, too, are experiencing a decline in being able to do the things they once enjoyed. The day following Easter I made six calls, including one to my ninety-eight-year-old former handbell choir director. She was delighted! We laughed and reminisced about the good old days, and before we parted, she said, “Thank you for thinking of me and calling. It made me feel special.” Another call was to a former boss whom I worked with forty-three years ago. He was happy and thanked me for my contribution to his department’s success during my tenure of service. He commented that he was following in my footsteps and was writing a book. I encouraged him to keep writing. A later call was to a dear friend—the pianist at my wedding more than fifty-three years ago. She returned my call on her way home from work. We chatted for several minutes. At the end of our conversation, she remarked, “Every night after I come home from work, I cry. Tonight I did not cry. Thank you for calling me.” Her beloved husband had succumbed to pancreatic cancer some months before.

Old age is a blessing from the Lord, but sometimes, we may not see it that way. I am thankful that God continues to give me special moments to brighten the lives of fellow travelers on the road of life. No one is ever too old to inspire or encourage others.

Shirley C. Iheanacho