Did you know Sylvester the Cat speaks Spanish?
I should not have been surprised. After all those years tracking Tweety Bird, maybe another language would help.
Sylvester was the cover boy on my Valentine's Day card from my wife. The message was sweet and funny--and given to me in person here in Panama. Yes, I'm still here--and enjoying every minute.
This time I've got my son Isaac and his friend Bennett at my side. It's good for me to have the boys, because they add a perspective that I've lost about Panama. Now, I see Sylvester the Cat, LaCoste ads and baseball. Bennett, who's visiting a foreign country for the first time, sees houses with tin roofs, smells unusual odors, and hears Spanish everywhere. For me this place is familiar. For Bennett it's a whole new world.
I'm constantly amazed at how the Panamanians embrace American culture. Their stores are stocked with American goods--that people buy at ridiculously inflated prices. Even US holidays are celebrated here, including Thanksgiving! If anything, they should LOATH Thanksgiving because it marks the rise of England in the New World. The original Panama City was burned to the ground by English pirates, yet Panamanians celebrate Thanksgiving! And Santa Claus rides in a sleigh. And Sylvester the Cat delivers Valentines greetings.
At the same time thank God for the differences. This week is Carnival in Panama--that uniquely Latin celebration before Lent. In the U.S., other than in New Orleans, we've largely lost this celebration. It's too bad, because a little fun is what we badly need in northern climates in mid-February. I'm happy to be here for Carnival.
And fresh fruit--wow, how much I enjoy that. Pineapple so sweet it tastes like someone added sugar. Mangos, watermelon and grapes, too. I can't stop eating when I'm here.
Of course the beach--crashing waves and warm water, really takes the chill out of my bones.
Can an American get tired of Panama? I don't think it's possible in February.
Adios Amigos!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Hello Again
Well, it's been a week since I last posted. If anyone is disappointed, I'm sorry. Clearly I lack the discipline, or perhaps, more accurately, the singular purpose that Julie (in Julie and Julia) possessed to write a daily blog.
I'm twelve days now in Panama. The weather has been magnificent--warm every day and not too humid. I'm eating well, but sticking to my diet and exercise regime. My wife and I are getting along fine. We miss our children, though.
In many ways Panama looks better than it has in past visits. No devastating recession here, seems like everyone is working--and many prospering. Traffic, while still frustrating, has improved thanks to some recently completed freeways and newly installed "smart" traffic lights that adjust depending on traffic loads. The Panamanians hate the lights, but I think they're great.
Panamanian drivers are actually obeying the new lights instead of running through intersections at breakneck speeds. This country needed to "slow down" and obey rules of safe driving. My wife suspects that foreign guests had complained about poor Panamanian drivers, and the government decided to do something rather than risk alienating an important source of national revenue. So, to me, the traffic in Panama is noticeably better now.
Also noticeably better is my wife's aunt. She has rallied (again) and seems in no imminent danger of dying. This is not the first time she's recovered like this--dire medical emergency, death on the doorstep, Piecuchs arrive, and, voila, a new lease on life. Why the improvement? Does my wife's touch possess restorative powers? Did we bring with us some special medicine not available in Panama? I have my own theory.
Modern medicine can cure many ills and keep our bodies going in relatively good shape to a ripe old age. I've written here before about longevity secrets--and the importance of fruitful labor. And this week, I see even more clearly that what I wrote is true. Medicine cannot give meaning to life. Doctors cannot give purpose to their patients. Existing alone is not enough to sustain one's spirit.
The physical decline of Clarisa's aunt, which nearly cost her her life eight weeks ago, has as much to do with her shrinking world as with her advancing age. Aunt Clarisa's lost mobility has had devastating results. Too proud to sit in a wheelchair and barely able to walk, her world became little more than her small, hot apartment. On the third floor without an elevator, there was no place for her to go and nobody to see but those who chose to visit. I'd be dying, too. No going to church. No trips to the market. No sitting in the park watching people. Her universe shrank to her telephone, her television, her doctors, and her caregivers.
But to see her today--even after an exhausting round of dialysis--Clarisa's aunt seems energized. She's walking better. She's taking more interest in her surroundings. And, she's exceling at her new job (overseeing meal prep at our condo). This turnaround has come with some effort. When we arrived she seemed interested in little more than talking about her illnesses and ailments. That had to stop.
We now force her to talk, to walk, to supervise meal preparation, to go to church. Rather than simply sit her in a chair, count her pills and speak soothing words, we urge her to get up, to do for herself, and to make decisions. Sometimes my wife sounds a little harsh--but remember the saying, "use it or lose it." Very true when we're old--what you don't use, doesn't come back.
Here's two behaviors every elderly person should work hard to avoid: self righteousness and self indulgence. A self righteous person always believes that they are fine in God's eyes. While others may be judged harshly, the self righteous are God's favorites. The true saint always recognizes that they are unworthy of God's favor--that God's mercy comes in spite of our shortcomings. The closer a saint walks with God, the more he/she recognizes their own shortcomings.
The daily disciplines of those who struggle for righteousness sake--prayer, meditation, Bible study, worship, praise--do not require physical strength or trips about town. A homebound elderly person has plenty of time for these activities! However, a self righteous person may avoid them. Why pray, go to church, seek to do acts of mercy and kindness for others? I'm already God's favorite, and, now that I am old, I need not make those efforts.
The self indulgent person takes care of his/her own needs first and lacks empathy for the needs of others. While a younger self indulgent person may in their daily activities find themselves helping others, especially if they have children who need their care, an elderly self indulgent person may feel no need to do anything for anyone else. After all, people should serve me.
Yet, our Lord said it is more blessed to give than to receive. And, that command does not end with advanced age. An old person who has empathy for the world can share their resources, can say kind words through letters and telephone calls, can pray and ask God to assist those who are in need. These giving activities do not require physical strength or mobility, yet they can make a difference in the lives of others.
As we work hard to help Clarisa's aunt spend her last days with dignity and to encourage her to strive for righteousness sake, may we be good guides and encouragers. May we avoid our own self righteousness and be empathetic toward her real infirmities--and show proper compassion when she experiences aches and pains.
Oh Lord, help us.
I'm twelve days now in Panama. The weather has been magnificent--warm every day and not too humid. I'm eating well, but sticking to my diet and exercise regime. My wife and I are getting along fine. We miss our children, though.
In many ways Panama looks better than it has in past visits. No devastating recession here, seems like everyone is working--and many prospering. Traffic, while still frustrating, has improved thanks to some recently completed freeways and newly installed "smart" traffic lights that adjust depending on traffic loads. The Panamanians hate the lights, but I think they're great.
Panamanian drivers are actually obeying the new lights instead of running through intersections at breakneck speeds. This country needed to "slow down" and obey rules of safe driving. My wife suspects that foreign guests had complained about poor Panamanian drivers, and the government decided to do something rather than risk alienating an important source of national revenue. So, to me, the traffic in Panama is noticeably better now.
Also noticeably better is my wife's aunt. She has rallied (again) and seems in no imminent danger of dying. This is not the first time she's recovered like this--dire medical emergency, death on the doorstep, Piecuchs arrive, and, voila, a new lease on life. Why the improvement? Does my wife's touch possess restorative powers? Did we bring with us some special medicine not available in Panama? I have my own theory.
Modern medicine can cure many ills and keep our bodies going in relatively good shape to a ripe old age. I've written here before about longevity secrets--and the importance of fruitful labor. And this week, I see even more clearly that what I wrote is true. Medicine cannot give meaning to life. Doctors cannot give purpose to their patients. Existing alone is not enough to sustain one's spirit.
The physical decline of Clarisa's aunt, which nearly cost her her life eight weeks ago, has as much to do with her shrinking world as with her advancing age. Aunt Clarisa's lost mobility has had devastating results. Too proud to sit in a wheelchair and barely able to walk, her world became little more than her small, hot apartment. On the third floor without an elevator, there was no place for her to go and nobody to see but those who chose to visit. I'd be dying, too. No going to church. No trips to the market. No sitting in the park watching people. Her universe shrank to her telephone, her television, her doctors, and her caregivers.
But to see her today--even after an exhausting round of dialysis--Clarisa's aunt seems energized. She's walking better. She's taking more interest in her surroundings. And, she's exceling at her new job (overseeing meal prep at our condo). This turnaround has come with some effort. When we arrived she seemed interested in little more than talking about her illnesses and ailments. That had to stop.
We now force her to talk, to walk, to supervise meal preparation, to go to church. Rather than simply sit her in a chair, count her pills and speak soothing words, we urge her to get up, to do for herself, and to make decisions. Sometimes my wife sounds a little harsh--but remember the saying, "use it or lose it." Very true when we're old--what you don't use, doesn't come back.
Here's two behaviors every elderly person should work hard to avoid: self righteousness and self indulgence. A self righteous person always believes that they are fine in God's eyes. While others may be judged harshly, the self righteous are God's favorites. The true saint always recognizes that they are unworthy of God's favor--that God's mercy comes in spite of our shortcomings. The closer a saint walks with God, the more he/she recognizes their own shortcomings.
The daily disciplines of those who struggle for righteousness sake--prayer, meditation, Bible study, worship, praise--do not require physical strength or trips about town. A homebound elderly person has plenty of time for these activities! However, a self righteous person may avoid them. Why pray, go to church, seek to do acts of mercy and kindness for others? I'm already God's favorite, and, now that I am old, I need not make those efforts.
The self indulgent person takes care of his/her own needs first and lacks empathy for the needs of others. While a younger self indulgent person may in their daily activities find themselves helping others, especially if they have children who need their care, an elderly self indulgent person may feel no need to do anything for anyone else. After all, people should serve me.
Yet, our Lord said it is more blessed to give than to receive. And, that command does not end with advanced age. An old person who has empathy for the world can share their resources, can say kind words through letters and telephone calls, can pray and ask God to assist those who are in need. These giving activities do not require physical strength or mobility, yet they can make a difference in the lives of others.
As we work hard to help Clarisa's aunt spend her last days with dignity and to encourage her to strive for righteousness sake, may we be good guides and encouragers. May we avoid our own self righteousness and be empathetic toward her real infirmities--and show proper compassion when she experiences aches and pains.
Oh Lord, help us.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Greetings from Panama
While you are braving the mid-winter chill, I'm currently chillin', in sunny Panama.
Very strange visit for me--fifth time in the country in the last 10 years, but this time just traveling with Clarisa. No kids, no big agenda, just us trying to figure out how best to help her aunt and uncle.
Aunt Clarisa and Uncle Granville are marvels in many ways. He's 94 and she's 92. They've been married 68 years and have lived independently the whole time. Even now, as their medical issues are multiplying, they still cling to their independence. Good for them that their minds are keen. However, increasingly, they need help for even the simplest tasks: cooking, cleaning, shopping--without assistance they cannot survive.
Panama does not have assisted living centers. When old people need help, they either move in with someone able bodied; if they can afford it they hire helpers; or, they die. Fortunately Clarisa's aunt and uncle are not destitute. Their resourced are modest, but sufficient to continue living. They also have a network of friends and loved ones they have cultivated throughout their long lives.
Still, what to do about the stairs, the cooking, the cleaning, the shopping?
Our lives are in the U.S., so any phyical help for us to offer them is limited. However, we can help them find a better place to live--a place close to shopping and medical care, a place in a quiet neighborhood without stairs! But, how to persuade competent adults that what we know they need is really what they want? It's their lives after all, and if they want to stay in an old apartment in a dangerous neighborhood with no elevator and three flights of stairs, we can't make them move.
So, today, we'll be in "selling" mode for these old folks. We're going to show them places where they can stay--and, hopefully be happy.
I'll keep you posted how this mission ends up.
Very strange visit for me--fifth time in the country in the last 10 years, but this time just traveling with Clarisa. No kids, no big agenda, just us trying to figure out how best to help her aunt and uncle.
Aunt Clarisa and Uncle Granville are marvels in many ways. He's 94 and she's 92. They've been married 68 years and have lived independently the whole time. Even now, as their medical issues are multiplying, they still cling to their independence. Good for them that their minds are keen. However, increasingly, they need help for even the simplest tasks: cooking, cleaning, shopping--without assistance they cannot survive.
Panama does not have assisted living centers. When old people need help, they either move in with someone able bodied; if they can afford it they hire helpers; or, they die. Fortunately Clarisa's aunt and uncle are not destitute. Their resourced are modest, but sufficient to continue living. They also have a network of friends and loved ones they have cultivated throughout their long lives.
Still, what to do about the stairs, the cooking, the cleaning, the shopping?
Our lives are in the U.S., so any phyical help for us to offer them is limited. However, we can help them find a better place to live--a place close to shopping and medical care, a place in a quiet neighborhood without stairs! But, how to persuade competent adults that what we know they need is really what they want? It's their lives after all, and if they want to stay in an old apartment in a dangerous neighborhood with no elevator and three flights of stairs, we can't make them move.
So, today, we'll be in "selling" mode for these old folks. We're going to show them places where they can stay--and, hopefully be happy.
I'll keep you posted how this mission ends up.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Your Elevator Speech
Lots of interesting advice is coming to me now that I'm beginning my job search. While perusing a magazine article about job searches in the current economy, a writer said that I should always have my "elevator speech" ready. What's an elevator speech? Well, an elevator speech is a stripped down version of your resume that you prepared and can share with a potential employer who has very little time to listen. Since so many people currently are looking for work, the smart job seeker should prepare a succinct "pitch" that when delivered will captivate the hearer. However, unlike other face-to-face interactions, the elevator speech must be delivered in one minute or less. You know, the time of a typical trip in an elevator.
Yes--one minute or less. Not an interview. Not even chat over coffee. This speech is meant to pique a person's interest--get them excited about scheduling a real interview. The elevator speech better be interesting.
But, seriously, can a person really boil down their best features into such a tiny package? Can a one-dimensional caricature of oneself persuade anybody of a person's worth or character? I don't know, but I'm willing to toss out an elevator speech . . . as soon as I write one!
What should I include? I'm hoping some of my readers could offer suggestions. The description of me contained on this blog's homepage isn't very good. Look at it. Would anybody want to hire me because of my status with the Presbyterian Church? I have stepped in a Presbyterian church two times in the last five years! It's been 12 years since that church has had much impact in my life!
My wife, my son and my dog ARE close to my heart--but, fodder for my elevator speech? I don't think so. Having a wife, son and dog are noteworthy, but hardly lift me above the throngs of job seekers.
Rather than reciting simple facts from my resume, I think my elevator speech could mention one or two personal superlatives and then provide examples to support the statements. One superlative might be personal, the other professional. Here's what I'm thinking about today: "I make excellent chilli. In fact I once won a chilli cookoff and the contestants included a Detroit fireman. That was a tough contest." Second superlative: "My values make a difference in the workplace. During my time at American Laser Centers, I recruited, hired and trained more than four thousand persons, ninety-five percent of them were women. I personally wrote the employee handbook at the company and oversaw the implementation of all personnel policies. During my seven years of leadership, the company never faced any accusations of sexual misconduct or harassment. I'm very proud of that achievement."
Both those statements are true--and they seem far more interesting than the typical contents of "hire me" speeches. Seriously, I believe every hiring manager must be sick of encountering hardworking, loyal, good communicators? Wouldn't you rather work with a guy who can make a mean pot of chilli? I know I would.
I'd love some feedback here. Next week I'm going to be in Panama with my wife. We'll be busy and I won't have much time to write. However, in early February I'm scheduling my first work opportunity appointments. It's been a while since I've had to "sell" myself, and any tips and suggestions from you are most appreciated.
In the meantime, I'm glad to help you with your elevator speech, too. Let me know.
With affection.
Yes--one minute or less. Not an interview. Not even chat over coffee. This speech is meant to pique a person's interest--get them excited about scheduling a real interview. The elevator speech better be interesting.
But, seriously, can a person really boil down their best features into such a tiny package? Can a one-dimensional caricature of oneself persuade anybody of a person's worth or character? I don't know, but I'm willing to toss out an elevator speech . . . as soon as I write one!
What should I include? I'm hoping some of my readers could offer suggestions. The description of me contained on this blog's homepage isn't very good. Look at it. Would anybody want to hire me because of my status with the Presbyterian Church? I have stepped in a Presbyterian church two times in the last five years! It's been 12 years since that church has had much impact in my life!
My wife, my son and my dog ARE close to my heart--but, fodder for my elevator speech? I don't think so. Having a wife, son and dog are noteworthy, but hardly lift me above the throngs of job seekers.
Rather than reciting simple facts from my resume, I think my elevator speech could mention one or two personal superlatives and then provide examples to support the statements. One superlative might be personal, the other professional. Here's what I'm thinking about today: "I make excellent chilli. In fact I once won a chilli cookoff and the contestants included a Detroit fireman. That was a tough contest." Second superlative: "My values make a difference in the workplace. During my time at American Laser Centers, I recruited, hired and trained more than four thousand persons, ninety-five percent of them were women. I personally wrote the employee handbook at the company and oversaw the implementation of all personnel policies. During my seven years of leadership, the company never faced any accusations of sexual misconduct or harassment. I'm very proud of that achievement."
Both those statements are true--and they seem far more interesting than the typical contents of "hire me" speeches. Seriously, I believe every hiring manager must be sick of encountering hardworking, loyal, good communicators? Wouldn't you rather work with a guy who can make a mean pot of chilli? I know I would.
I'd love some feedback here. Next week I'm going to be in Panama with my wife. We'll be busy and I won't have much time to write. However, in early February I'm scheduling my first work opportunity appointments. It's been a while since I've had to "sell" myself, and any tips and suggestions from you are most appreciated.
In the meantime, I'm glad to help you with your elevator speech, too. Let me know.
With affection.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Who Do You Want in Your Corner?
It's a beautiful winter morning in Michigan and I still find myself thinking about themes of loss, love and appreciation.
As much as I wish to be wise and discerning, I find myself, at my ever advancing age, still making the same mistakes I've made my entire life. While its comforting to know that many others make the same mistakes, I'm not happy knowing that hordes of us are bad decision makers. Oh to be wise, discerning and appreciative for what is right and true rather than spending time, energy and resources chasing the illusory, the temporary, the disappointing.
What do I mean? Well, let's talk about people. I'm a sucker for witty, attractive, charmers. You know, men and women who can make crowds smile, who always look good in the clothes they wear, and whose schedules are packed with interesting commitments, job functions, and getaways with friends and family. In comparison, my life seems depopulated and uninteresting. How come the witty, attractive charmers don't want to be my friend? Why am I at home watching TV instead hobknobing with the cool crowd? This sounds so very much like high school--yet these feelings for me are real. Do you ever feel the same way?
The truth is, there are lots of people in my life and lots of interesting, satisfying ways to spend my time. So why am I not satisfied? More importantly, why do I seek approval from people who don't really care about me, while those who prove themselves faithful and true I hold in low regard?
At my grandfather's funeral last week was a family--two very plain parents and their rather ordinary looking daughter. Upon further investigation turns out the girl wasn't that ordinary at all--at age 10 she was already in the eighth grade! This family picked up my grandfather every Sunday evening and drove him to church since he could not drive himself. And they'd been doing this for years. After church they would sit in my grandfather's apartment, play checkers, and share stories of their lives.
The little girl was distraught over the loss of someone who was important to her--a 99-year-old great grandfather who could barely see, barely hear, and, by all accounts, carried himself like a grumpy old man. Clearly these facts didn't bother that family. They found great personal worth in this on-going act of kindness. "It wasn't a burden being with your grandfather," said the father to me. "He became a friend, and we looked forward to the time." This family also found themselves at my grandfather's bedside at the time of his death.
Hmm, now I asked myself some questions. Why wasn't I at the old man's bedside? When was the last time I played checkers with anyone, let alone my grandfather? When was the last time my children spent substantive time with an elderly person? What joyful, meaningful experiences have I missed because rather than nurturing relationships with the everyday people who surround me, I'm working overtime to find the secret code to getting into the cool group?
The sage advice is true: we must bloom where we're planted, find joy in the people and places where we live, see goodness and value in the people and opportunities before us, and resist the allure of power, prestige and popularity. For me, this is a very tall order indeed. God help me reorder my priorities this year.
Keep praying for your loved ones this week. Scripture says the effective prayers of the faithful person can accomplish much.
Good bye.
As much as I wish to be wise and discerning, I find myself, at my ever advancing age, still making the same mistakes I've made my entire life. While its comforting to know that many others make the same mistakes, I'm not happy knowing that hordes of us are bad decision makers. Oh to be wise, discerning and appreciative for what is right and true rather than spending time, energy and resources chasing the illusory, the temporary, the disappointing.
What do I mean? Well, let's talk about people. I'm a sucker for witty, attractive, charmers. You know, men and women who can make crowds smile, who always look good in the clothes they wear, and whose schedules are packed with interesting commitments, job functions, and getaways with friends and family. In comparison, my life seems depopulated and uninteresting. How come the witty, attractive charmers don't want to be my friend? Why am I at home watching TV instead hobknobing with the cool crowd? This sounds so very much like high school--yet these feelings for me are real. Do you ever feel the same way?
The truth is, there are lots of people in my life and lots of interesting, satisfying ways to spend my time. So why am I not satisfied? More importantly, why do I seek approval from people who don't really care about me, while those who prove themselves faithful and true I hold in low regard?
At my grandfather's funeral last week was a family--two very plain parents and their rather ordinary looking daughter. Upon further investigation turns out the girl wasn't that ordinary at all--at age 10 she was already in the eighth grade! This family picked up my grandfather every Sunday evening and drove him to church since he could not drive himself. And they'd been doing this for years. After church they would sit in my grandfather's apartment, play checkers, and share stories of their lives.
The little girl was distraught over the loss of someone who was important to her--a 99-year-old great grandfather who could barely see, barely hear, and, by all accounts, carried himself like a grumpy old man. Clearly these facts didn't bother that family. They found great personal worth in this on-going act of kindness. "It wasn't a burden being with your grandfather," said the father to me. "He became a friend, and we looked forward to the time." This family also found themselves at my grandfather's bedside at the time of his death.
Hmm, now I asked myself some questions. Why wasn't I at the old man's bedside? When was the last time I played checkers with anyone, let alone my grandfather? When was the last time my children spent substantive time with an elderly person? What joyful, meaningful experiences have I missed because rather than nurturing relationships with the everyday people who surround me, I'm working overtime to find the secret code to getting into the cool group?
The sage advice is true: we must bloom where we're planted, find joy in the people and places where we live, see goodness and value in the people and opportunities before us, and resist the allure of power, prestige and popularity. For me, this is a very tall order indeed. God help me reorder my priorities this year.
Keep praying for your loved ones this week. Scripture says the effective prayers of the faithful person can accomplish much.
Good bye.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
The Power of Prayer
Good Morning Friends,
I'm back at my kitchen table after a whirlwind four days that saw me sleeping in three beds in three cities (Friday in Florida, Saturday in Detroit, Sunday in Des Moines and last night back in my own bed again). Glad to be home.
In Florida I attended the funeral of my 99-year-old grandfather. There I renewed relationships with relatives not seen in years and had some serious "face time" with my mother and two sisters. Emails and telephone calls are fine, but nothing really nurtures a relationship better than face-to-face interaction. I'm glad I showed up. The experience of intense family togetherness was more fulfilling than I had expected, but it was exhausting--and I was ready to leave the gathering early.
So, Saturday evening, I headed for home (the funeral was early Saturday afternoon). I explained to family that my class of seventh grade Sunday school students awaited me in Detroit AND that my daughter, who is a freshman in college, needed a ride back to school. So, I landed in Detroit around midnight Saturday night, got home, went to bed, got up, taught my class, and, by noon was packed up and on the road driving toward Des Moines with my wife and daughter in tow.
After all that activity, I'm ready for some reflection. But, first, I must get over my panic.
One theme repeated at my grandfather's funeral was his faithfulness, particularly his devotion to prayer. My grandfather shared with family members in his last days that he prayed, by name, for each of his four living children, his thirteen living grandchildren, and his 29 living great grandchildren EVERY DAY. Talk about praying without ceasing! For nearly half a century, this man never stopped asking God to care for me. And now that prayer support is gone. I miss it. I sense it's absence. How am I going to survive and thrive without those prayers behind me? I'm ashamed to admit that I am not nearly as faithful to prayer as my grandfather. It's not a consistent, daily habit for me to beg our creator to care for my loved ones. God forgive me. I had a better example than that.
While disasters, disappointments and tragedies have befallen my extended family, just like every other family, I believe that my grandfather's constant prayers provided us a spiritual shield of protection. Certain evils have passed us by unscathed because of these prayers. And that protection is gone unless we remaining family members humble ourselves before the Lord and admit we (and our loved ones) need help.
Christian faith demands action. And one action our holy Scripture, our churches and every devout believer agree is most important is committing ourselves to daily prayer. So, in honor of my grandfather, Lawrence Raass, covenant with me to pray by name for your loved ones every day this week--at least through Sunday morning. Your prayer could be as simple as "God watch over my daughter [Name] today. Protect her from harm and help her to choose what is right." That will take you all of what, 10 seconds? And, who knows, that simple act may provide your loved one some bit of protection or inspiration that he or she needs. So, while I've lost an essential bit of my own personal prayer support, it's time that I shore up being that essential support for others.
Theme change.
Yesterday in Des Moines I had the best lunch I've eaten in months. Besides prayer, I can think of no better sustenance than a warm bowl of soup and a hearty pork sandwich. On a whim, before beginning the journey back to Michigan, we stopped for lunch at Proof restaurant in the old Masonic Temple on 10th St. in downtown Des Moines. It's possible we came to eat the right day because the proprietor was entertaining a group of 20 French chefs who were on a "food tour" of middle America. Regardless of the guests, I believe she prepares food that well every day--and I will be back. Visit Proof next time you're in Des Moines. The lentil/squash soup (which she made with lots of cilantro, cumin and curry) was outstanding, and her Pork Reuben avoided the greasy gooey ingredients I'm used to and instead was made on flat bread with succulent chunks of roasted pork. Yum. That lunch and a good cup of coffee was enough fuel to get me home.
Got to go. Tune in tomorrow.
I'm back at my kitchen table after a whirlwind four days that saw me sleeping in three beds in three cities (Friday in Florida, Saturday in Detroit, Sunday in Des Moines and last night back in my own bed again). Glad to be home.
In Florida I attended the funeral of my 99-year-old grandfather. There I renewed relationships with relatives not seen in years and had some serious "face time" with my mother and two sisters. Emails and telephone calls are fine, but nothing really nurtures a relationship better than face-to-face interaction. I'm glad I showed up. The experience of intense family togetherness was more fulfilling than I had expected, but it was exhausting--and I was ready to leave the gathering early.
So, Saturday evening, I headed for home (the funeral was early Saturday afternoon). I explained to family that my class of seventh grade Sunday school students awaited me in Detroit AND that my daughter, who is a freshman in college, needed a ride back to school. So, I landed in Detroit around midnight Saturday night, got home, went to bed, got up, taught my class, and, by noon was packed up and on the road driving toward Des Moines with my wife and daughter in tow.
After all that activity, I'm ready for some reflection. But, first, I must get over my panic.
One theme repeated at my grandfather's funeral was his faithfulness, particularly his devotion to prayer. My grandfather shared with family members in his last days that he prayed, by name, for each of his four living children, his thirteen living grandchildren, and his 29 living great grandchildren EVERY DAY. Talk about praying without ceasing! For nearly half a century, this man never stopped asking God to care for me. And now that prayer support is gone. I miss it. I sense it's absence. How am I going to survive and thrive without those prayers behind me? I'm ashamed to admit that I am not nearly as faithful to prayer as my grandfather. It's not a consistent, daily habit for me to beg our creator to care for my loved ones. God forgive me. I had a better example than that.
While disasters, disappointments and tragedies have befallen my extended family, just like every other family, I believe that my grandfather's constant prayers provided us a spiritual shield of protection. Certain evils have passed us by unscathed because of these prayers. And that protection is gone unless we remaining family members humble ourselves before the Lord and admit we (and our loved ones) need help.
Christian faith demands action. And one action our holy Scripture, our churches and every devout believer agree is most important is committing ourselves to daily prayer. So, in honor of my grandfather, Lawrence Raass, covenant with me to pray by name for your loved ones every day this week--at least through Sunday morning. Your prayer could be as simple as "God watch over my daughter [Name] today. Protect her from harm and help her to choose what is right." That will take you all of what, 10 seconds? And, who knows, that simple act may provide your loved one some bit of protection or inspiration that he or she needs. So, while I've lost an essential bit of my own personal prayer support, it's time that I shore up being that essential support for others.
Theme change.
Yesterday in Des Moines I had the best lunch I've eaten in months. Besides prayer, I can think of no better sustenance than a warm bowl of soup and a hearty pork sandwich. On a whim, before beginning the journey back to Michigan, we stopped for lunch at Proof restaurant in the old Masonic Temple on 10th St. in downtown Des Moines. It's possible we came to eat the right day because the proprietor was entertaining a group of 20 French chefs who were on a "food tour" of middle America. Regardless of the guests, I believe she prepares food that well every day--and I will be back. Visit Proof next time you're in Des Moines. The lentil/squash soup (which she made with lots of cilantro, cumin and curry) was outstanding, and her Pork Reuben avoided the greasy gooey ingredients I'm used to and instead was made on flat bread with succulent chunks of roasted pork. Yum. That lunch and a good cup of coffee was enough fuel to get me home.
Got to go. Tune in tomorrow.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Models of Maturity
The movie script theme a little too heavy? Didn't hear from anyone about the posting. Let's hope today strikes a chord.
Today I'm thinking about my dearly departed grandfather, Lawrence Raass, who passed away last Friday at the ripe old age of 99. His passing was a terrible disappointment for many of us who looked forward to a 100-year-old birthday celebration planned for this April.
I expect that there will be elements of celebration this Saturday at his funeral--after all, living 99 years is a remarkable achievement. Especially since through most of those years Grandpa remained hale in body with a clear, unforgetting mind, we have a lot to thankful for. I've often said that if I could be healthy mentally and physically, I look forward to my own golden years. Statistically I have a good shot at getting there--pretty old already, no chronic medical conditions, and excellent family health histories.
Actually, as I consider my own models of maturity, there are persons I hope my life more closely resembles than others. Because, although Grandpa lived long, by all reports he was a pretty crochety old man, who was not that pleasant to be around in his later years. In contrast, I continue to be amazed by two other very old men--Ernie Harwell and Daniel Schorr. While I don't know them personally, I do know that being over 90 for them has not meant shuffling to the margins, but for them they continue to lead active, vital lives.
If you who don't know those names, Ernie Harwell is the extraordinary former announcer for Detroit Tigers. Many of us grew up hearing his voice--and we are continually amazed that while he is stricken with cancer, he continues to share his charm, wit and wisdom with appreciative fans. Similarly Dan Schorr remains a keen political observer who, as a 92-year-old commentator with National Public Radio, continues to share his insights with millions of listeners.
It's not the undimmed celebrity of Ernie Harwell and Dan Schorr that impress me, it's their ability to remain relevant, involved and interesting at an impossibly advanced age. I want to be 90 like those guys. What's their secret?
First continued good health requires lifelong good habits. Neither Harwell, Schorr or Grandpa used tobacco, abused alcohol, or led sedentary lives. Take care of the temple and it will take care of you.
Second, this is just a guess, but I do know that both Harwell and Schorr continue to live with long-time spouses. Unlike Grandpa who lost Grandma years ago, these men still enjoy the comfort of a partner. Seems like a key ingredient to health and happiness in your advanced senior years is to age with a partner.
Third, and finally, stay engaged with the world around you. While some seniors retreat to a life of ease, Harwell and Schorr found jobs that they excelled at far beyond typical retirement ages. I don't believe they kept working for the money--it's for the love of their vocation. I suppose a key to happiness in your 90s is to find a job you love and KEEP ON DOING IT!
Just some thoughts. I'll share more when I get back from the funeral this weekend.
Peace out!
Today I'm thinking about my dearly departed grandfather, Lawrence Raass, who passed away last Friday at the ripe old age of 99. His passing was a terrible disappointment for many of us who looked forward to a 100-year-old birthday celebration planned for this April.
I expect that there will be elements of celebration this Saturday at his funeral--after all, living 99 years is a remarkable achievement. Especially since through most of those years Grandpa remained hale in body with a clear, unforgetting mind, we have a lot to thankful for. I've often said that if I could be healthy mentally and physically, I look forward to my own golden years. Statistically I have a good shot at getting there--pretty old already, no chronic medical conditions, and excellent family health histories.
Actually, as I consider my own models of maturity, there are persons I hope my life more closely resembles than others. Because, although Grandpa lived long, by all reports he was a pretty crochety old man, who was not that pleasant to be around in his later years. In contrast, I continue to be amazed by two other very old men--Ernie Harwell and Daniel Schorr. While I don't know them personally, I do know that being over 90 for them has not meant shuffling to the margins, but for them they continue to lead active, vital lives.
If you who don't know those names, Ernie Harwell is the extraordinary former announcer for Detroit Tigers. Many of us grew up hearing his voice--and we are continually amazed that while he is stricken with cancer, he continues to share his charm, wit and wisdom with appreciative fans. Similarly Dan Schorr remains a keen political observer who, as a 92-year-old commentator with National Public Radio, continues to share his insights with millions of listeners.
It's not the undimmed celebrity of Ernie Harwell and Dan Schorr that impress me, it's their ability to remain relevant, involved and interesting at an impossibly advanced age. I want to be 90 like those guys. What's their secret?
First continued good health requires lifelong good habits. Neither Harwell, Schorr or Grandpa used tobacco, abused alcohol, or led sedentary lives. Take care of the temple and it will take care of you.
Second, this is just a guess, but I do know that both Harwell and Schorr continue to live with long-time spouses. Unlike Grandpa who lost Grandma years ago, these men still enjoy the comfort of a partner. Seems like a key ingredient to health and happiness in your advanced senior years is to age with a partner.
Third, and finally, stay engaged with the world around you. While some seniors retreat to a life of ease, Harwell and Schorr found jobs that they excelled at far beyond typical retirement ages. I don't believe they kept working for the money--it's for the love of their vocation. I suppose a key to happiness in your 90s is to find a job you love and KEEP ON DOING IT!
Just some thoughts. I'll share more when I get back from the funeral this weekend.
Peace out!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)