THANK GOD FOR THE JOURNEY
Tell your children about it, and let your children tell their children, and their children the next generation. Joel 1:3
Chaela, Cris, Adam. Three very important names to me and I must tell you why. This year I have had the opportunity and pleasure of participating in the Tellegacy Program. University students, known as Legacy Builders, connect with residents of retirement communities via phone or through virtual visits. The discussions focus on building rapport while allowing the older adults to impart wisdom and share stories of their past with the student. Having spent most of my life with younger generations, I have always felt that we can all learn from each other regardless of age, if we are open to careful listening. Chaela was my student match and attends Florida State University. Ours were virtual meetings which allowed me to see bits of the campus off and on. Chaela is Philipine but was born in the United States. Our mutual sharing found learning taking place on both sides, and I think we would both agree that this valuable program opened up new perspectives to each of us. The program has ended but our connection lives on.
I began thinking of others from different generations who impacted my life and immediately thought of my Physical Therapist Cris. She is a wonderful, knowledgeable, very bright therapist who is a member of my children’s generation. Throughout our time together we developed a close connection, and to this day continue to share things with each other that impact our lives.
Adam is a name I will never forget. He was a student of mine over 20 years ago and left a lasting impression on me. He was a rambunctious 8 year old when I met him, and is a devoted husband and father who continues to send me pictures of his newborn today. When Adam was graduating from high school, his parents allowed him to choose a trip to celebrate his graduation. He chose Alaska as his destination. In the middle of his trip, he called me from Alaska to let me know that he was at the home of the musher he followed when we studied the Iditarod in 3rd grade. We never know when impacts are being made. He is still a sweetheart and taught me much.
Never stop learning. Age doesn’t matter. All generations have much to offer. Life never stops teaching.
“Our journey in life is like a train ride. People step on and off the train. The ride will be full of joy, sorrow, hellos, goodbyes and farewells. Success consists of having a good relationship with all passengers requiring that we love, forgive and give the best of who we are. This is important, because when it is our time to step off the train and leave our seat empty, we should leave behind beautiful memories for those continuing to travel the train of life.” (paraphrased)
Heavenly Father, help us to reap success, to give lots of love as we impact others, and to be happy. Thank you God for the journey. Amen.
Barbara Schneider
