I talked to a dear friend whose Mom’s passing left his 85 year old Dad with a debilitating void. 65 years of marriage would do that to just about anyone who has lost a soulmate. “He’s slowing down”, is what he told me with a certain resignation of his Dad’s fleeting interest in life.
With deep personal loss during these less than golden years, the spirit breaks, and the heart aches. These combined with the psychological demons we battle, makes the body break down.
Yes, this proud soldier has spent a great life in the service to his country, and yes, he has had a long and seemingly wonderful life. However, the reality is that eventual end is neither golden, nor optimistic, nor poetic.
We must do more for our “old” folks, who need us more so now than ever before, as the final chapter of life approaches it’s inevitable end. These golden years lose their luster and don’t seem so glamorous after all.
Take care of your old folks — if you are lucky to still have them on this earth — it’s time to pay it back!
About Hemant Rustogi