Mt. Olive Seniors by Dixie Kuykendall

The North Jefferson News



I read this prayer of an aging woman written by a 17th century nun and I thought it so appropriate for today’s seniors:

Lord, you know better than I know myself that I am growing older and will some day be old.

Keep me from getting talkative, particularly from the fatal habit of thinking that I must say something on every subject and on every occasion.

Release me from craving to straighten out everybody’s affairs. Make me thoughtful, but not moody; helpful, but not bossy.

With my vast store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it all, but you know, Lord, that I want a few friends at the end. Keep my mind from the recital of endless details – give me wings to come to the point.

I ask for grace enough to listen to the tales of others’ pains.

Seal my lips on my own aches and pains — they are increasing, and my love of rehashing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by. Help me to endure them with patience.

I dare not ask for improved memory, but for a growing humility and a lessening cocksureness when my memory seems to clash with the memories of others.

Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally it is possible that I may be mistaken.

Keep me reasonably sweet. I do not want to be a saint — some of them are so hard to live with — but a sour old woman is one of the crowing works of the devil.

Give me the ability to see good things in unexpected places and talents in unexpected people.

And give me, O Lord, the grace to tell them so.

Did you see yourself in that poem? My children lovingly (I think) often refer to me as a control freak, so this prayer speaks volumes to me. I guess we all could use an attitude adjustment from time to time.

Once again, I have to pay tribute to a special group of ladies whose attitude is a shining example — The Tuesday Quilters Guild. They stay involved, enjoy life and stay busy and productive.

Some beautiful items have already been made and more in the process for the annual crafts sale in November. I‘ll remind you again because you don’t want to miss it.

The Mt. Olive Senior Center folks enjoyed our August pot luck. Just like I keep telling you, you just don’t know what you are missing by not joining us at the center.