This is the lifestyle change
Make It Rich In 2013 by Jane Meyers-Bowen
You’ve been waiting for!
New Year’s Resolutions typically place a lot of pressure on us as the year begins. They say that we typically “fall off the wagon” long before our resolution intentions are fulfilled. I think pushing oneself and challenging who we are, to make improvements, is great. What we learn, and where we want to go with our lives, makes for an interesting and fun ride. However, it may be easy to overlook those things that prove to be invaluable pieces of information. Many times I had wished I would have asked more questions of my parents when they were alive. My family was one that spent a lot of time together telling stories. My father was in every major invasion in Western theatre (except for one) during World War II. He lived his life with an attitude that if the German Army couldn’t hold him back – then what could? My mother and father, as a couple, worked hard and explored a lot of things in their lives, taking risks and enjoying the journey. I had the opportunity to lead a discussion group at the retirement community where I work, with the intention to assist the residents and help them learn more about each other. Seniors often don’t talk much about their lives, achievements, or major learning experiences. Things about their families, and situations presently taking place tend to occupy their conversation. It is enjoyable to listen to, but I’ve found that there is so much more that they can share. Many times, Grandma and Grandpa are shelved to the side, and become listeners, rather than sharing their stories which can be so transformational. We all talk a lot about the what, who, and where questions. Although the surface is a great start, the deeper story is presented when things come alive. Take the time to talk below the surface this year. You will be sure to find inspiration, courage, and joy in others experiences. Some of the many deeper questions that can be asked are: • What single event as a young adult, made you who you are today? • How did you know you were in love? • What did you learn about yourself from being a parent? • What makes a good leader? • What makes you so strong to keep striving, when you have to face obstacles? • What gives you hope today? • Of course there is always the Bucket List question – What is left to do? I led a co-learning project with a local high school, and a group of 15 seniors mostly in their 80’s. The students were asked to read 100 pages, 4
YOUR RETIREMENT DECISIONS HAVE NEVER BEEN EASIER! Enjoy them now.
look at 100 images, and talk to someone who lived through The Great Depression. There was a facilitated discussion on this period in history including: The stories of surviving the dust bowl; putting cardboard in their shoes to cover the holes; living a life with no TV or Internet; being immigrants to America; and learning about soup lines and Hooverville. It was an amazing experience to see such divergent groups learn together. The students then presented multimedia presentations to the seniors of the images, music, and things they had learned from the seniors’ stories. Both were in awe of each other, and both felt they had found a friend. The exchange left the young adults saying that this made history come alive. They agreed that it helped them gain a better understanding of themselves, and couldn’t wait till they could meet again. They were thirsty for more time and more conversation. The seniors, on the other hand, couldn’t stop talking about how special these students were. The seniors were so inspired and excited about the opportunity to contribute to these young adults lives, that they walked 3 inches taller.
Q u a i l Pa r k o f ly n n w o o d r a i s es t he B a r Introducing Living Care’s latest lifestyle campus. Our unique sanctuary location, our elegant lodge architecture and exceptional services and amenities, and our deep commitment to surpassing the changing needs of seniors, reflects our passion to continually raise the bar. Watch us grow... then come see for yourself why Quail Park of Lynnwood is steps above the rest.
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I have been a long time believer in intergenerational communities. We need each other’s viewpoints, knowledge, and wisdom to keep ourselves humble, with a happy heart and a courageous spirit. So plan for “Making it Rich” this year. Capture the opportunity to really take time to have those conversations that can change your life!
For more information please call 425-438-9080 or visit www.gardencourtretirement.com
senior guidebook – bridging generations
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