I am about to depart for our annual Woman’s Wellness Weekend. This has been a tradition for over 19 years. Once a year, I get together with my mom, her three remaining sisters, two of my cousins, a great aunt, and our matriarch, Gloria.
Sometimes there is a friend or two who come along as well. We find a fantastic VRBO (Vacation Rental by Owner), cook wonderful foods, create art, shop, go to the spa, relax and last year we even got matching tattoos. A beautiful bird on our wrists which represent “Birds Up!” as we wave our arms in the air. It’s a celebration of life and friendships.
I have never considered myself a tattoo person, but when I see my wrist every day, I am reminded of the love I share with these special women in my life. We have made our pact, and we forever support each other through the good, the bad, the sadness, and the honesty. We have all faced the loss of loved ones, so we cry and share memories of those we miss.
Being with women who know me so well means that when we check in every year, we don’t have to start over. The stories continue year after year.
This is a sad year for us all as our loved and adored matriarch, Gloria has been told she is too old to join us this year. At 94, she is one of the most active people I know. When we play cards or dominos, she keeps score and shakes her head when we make a terrible play. She’s sharp as a tack and a spitfire. I mean that in the “most loving” generous way.
When we vacationed in Cabo San Luca for her 90th birthday, she went skydiving! Gloria has traveled the world as a teacher and a friend to many. She was still teaching English as a second language, going to the club to work out, and driving just a year ago. She says she doesn’t feel old and I believe her. It breaks my heart when people don’t listen to the elderly.
The point comes when people begin to talk to them like a child, putting them to bed at 8 p.m. and tucking them in. When I am 94, I want to surround myself with young people who have exciting ideas, read books, and I will travel until the motor dies in my electric wheelchair.
I know her heart; she has given up the fight and decided to let others decide what is best for her. At some point, it is easier than telling them all to “step off” daily.
But what if we didn’t do that to our elderly? What if we encouraged good food and exercise over medication and naps? What happened to be young at heart?
I honestly think it was the tattoo that pushed them over the edge. It’s sad when people don’t understand the bond that is shared by others. I will forever look at my wrist and think of the women I love.
Most of all, I will think of Gloria and all she has given me in my life as a mentor, teacher, and friend. Dear Gloria, you will never be “too old” in my eyes.
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