Love Lives Here, March 24

Thursday, March 24

Romans 12:12 (NIV): Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.

As we walked into the Brookdale Highlands Ranch Memory Care building, I noticed the sign had a blurb at the bottom, “Love lives here.” Well, it better live here, I harrumphed to myself. I was at my wit’s end. I certainly wasn’t joyful, and I didn’t have much hope. Just two months earlier, Mike and I had moved my sweet mom, Grace, from independent living into an assisted living center. I thought it was the perfect plan; she was much closer, and we needed to make her world a bit smaller. It just wasn’t what God had planned--He had something better in mind.

We were told in October that mom required more attention than could be provided in assisted living, and a move to a memory care community was in order. How could I have missed the signs of mom’s deepening dementia? My heart was broken as we toured Brookdale Highlands Ranch, even though the building and atmosphere were warm and inviting. But God’s love and light broke through just when I needed it.

As we completed our tour, an energetic, young woman approached us and said, “I know you!” It took us a while since we were both masked to make the connection. Finally, she said, “I know—you sing in the choir!” We drew our masks down for a quick second, and I recognized her instantly when she said, “I’m Molly Clancy, one of the activity directors here!”

Instantly, I recognized her as a cheerful member of Abiding Hope Church who had organized and headed up the church kitchen. Although I didn’t know her well, I knew that Molly was one of those people whose winning smile and positive attitude is contagious. That day, Molly was working with a small group of residents making greeting cards. She explained that at this stage of life, making cards is more fun than playing cards. It was an “aha moment” for me.

My mom, Grace, who had been a middle school reading teacher and master bridge player for over 30 years, was now ready for specially designed activities. When I looked at their monthly calendar, I was amazed at the daily creativity and the variety! Musical and interactive dance performances are scheduled weekly. Exercise is daily. Journaling, coloring, and making crafts are a necessary part of the curriculum, as is Bingo and other guessing games. Many days revolve around a theme. Last Saturday was Elvis’ birthday, so they painted Elvis while they listened to his music. This Saturday was national Tulip Day, so they made origami tulips. Mom loves all these activities, but especially enjoys the cooking sessions. This week they are making blueberry lemon bars.

Whenever I stop by to visit mom, I am reminded of the quote by Kahlil Gibran, “Love is work made visible.” I see the patience, kindness, loving smiles, laughter, and plain, hard work modeled by all the staff at this Brookdale home. This is a group of professionals that choose love and hope every day, and they are an inspiration to me. Indeed, love does live here.

Dear Loving Father, when COVID seems to make all tasks harder and more complicated, open my eyes to those who put love into their work every hour, every day. When my job seems difficult, remind me that your spirit is most clearly shown when I am weak. And thank you for those special souls who make hope and love visible through their work. Amen