Stories to Tell

We visited our friends Charlie and Yvonne today........they are older and Charlie's health is not great, but they are a joy to spend time with.  Charlie was a press secretary for a congressman for many years.  Yes, he does have some stories and none of them are boring.  Yvonne is charming and witty and they still host a live local tv show.  I sat and listened to them today and marveled at the life they have shared.  If Rick and I make it to our 80's I hope that we are still that vibrant and interesting.

On one of our visits awhile back, Yvonne gave me a gold bangle bracelet that Charlie had given her when they were in DC.  It is one of my most treasured possessions, I wear it often.  I think of her and Charlie and what their lives must have been like in their younger days .  As we were leaving today, Charlie said something so poignant......he was telling us how much they loved our visits......and then his voice changed.......he told us that one of the things about growing older, that people did not visit you as they did when you were younger.  There was such a wistfulness in his voice.

It is sad that our culture does not celebrate age and the wisdom and knowledge that comes with it.
Charlie and Yvonne are two of the most engaging people I have ever met.  I love spending time with them.  I learn something every time I am around them.  If you are reading this tonight and you avoid
spending time with those who are older, shame on you.  Their lives, their experience and passions are vital and important and you my friend, are missing out on so very much.  Everyone has a story, and those who have lived a long life.......have many stories to tell.