There are many among us who would love to be able to do what they
did many years ago in the prime of their life. Age and general weaknesses have
left them able to do only a fraction of what former health allowed. They have
less physical movement and that is accomplished at a slower pace. They try to
get around overcoming as much of their limitations as possible. All they ask is
some assistance and a lot of patience.
The “slow-go” individuals face the frustration of remembering what
they have been able to do, but now must adjust to a different lifestyle. In
many cases the desire to be involved remains, and their mental capacity says
things really haven’t changed all that much.
Then they have to get up on a cool, damp morning and their joints
simply don’t want to cooperate. Muscles have stiffened overnight, and that cane
or walker reminds them they have to move slowly even around their kitchen and
living room. They refuse to give up and give in to the aches and pains that are
a part of their daily existence. Their speed and stability while walking,
however, reveal time has taken its toll and adjustments have to be made.
Yet these too are a part of our human family. They too deserve to
be given respect and the opportunity to contribute to their world as well as
receive from it. How do we as fellow pilgrims on this journey through life in
general and as members of the family of God with Jesus Christ as our Lord live
out the mandate we are our brother’s and sister’s keeper? To show the honor
every human being deserves, we must be willing not only to give into their
lives, but we must also be willing to provide ways we can receive from them that
will give them a sense of personal satisfaction.
In many ways similar to the “can’t go” individual, the slow go
person will need to contribute in ways that use the mind and spirit more than
physical motion. This does not mean, however, these individuals cannot
contribute in social settings that is rewarding to all. In the solo setting,
these individuals can also be great prayer warriors for the family of faith. Allow
them the opportunity to use a regularly updated prayer list to support the
spiritual efforts of their church. “Slow go” individuals may also be the best
individuals to call those who are homebound and not able to get out. This keeps
both groups in contact with other people in a way that exercises social skills
and mental processes.
Many of these people have hand skills which can be used at home or
in group settings that will benefit others. With transportation provided to a
central location, they are able to participate in a social setting and produce
items that provide a sense of personal accomplishment and benefit others at the
same time. For most of these people there has been minimal loss of mental
faculties. Their memories can be a wealth of information and inspiration for
those who will take time to listen and record their words for others.
The man and woman in our circles of friends and acquaintances who are
not restricted to their residence and yet cannot quite keep up with the crowd have
still much to offer our society. If we must slow down a bit to keep them
involved, we may discover we are all the better for it.
