The Slow-Go Can Go

As one who is approaching the Slow-Go category, the need to see how this group of people can continue to feel valuable grows ever more important. Even procrastination can be an excuse for slowing down and not being involved as might be possible.

As followers of Jesus Christ we should seek as many ways as possible to enhance the value of each person that will show God still considers them of value, and they are able to be a meaningful part of his Kingdom. If our imagination keeps forcing these folks back into old ways no longer reasonable, then we need the imagination of others to show them new activities to explore.

Modern technology has helped many overcome what was once physically debilitating. New avenues of mission work allow old skills to be enjoyed by more people. Communication methods allowing worldwide contact have created the opportunity for a Slow-Go in one country to be in contact with others with similar limitations half a world away.

Consider these ideas as you help a Slow-Go friend or relative get a fresh start in life. Some involve travel outside the home. Remember, a Slow-Go individual should never be seen as homebound. That may come soon enough. Seek to provide as many opportunities to get out of their residence and associate with others as possible. Other opportunities for service can be accomplished at home.

Being an active prayer warrior is never a function of mobility. While at home the Slow-Go individual can provide prayer support for the congregation in the same way the Can’t-Go individual does. As a prayer warrior the individual can be assigned a specific group of people to hold in prayer such as a list being served by a deacon or elder. The prayer list can also include church members away from home such as students, those serving in the military, and specific missionaries working on home and foreign fields.

From home, ministry can be performed by use of the telephone through contacting absentees from Bible study groups or ministry programs. A Slow-Go can be the contact person for the homebound individual living in their own home or in a support facility. The telephone allows the relationship between church and college student to be maintained. The Slow-Go doesn’t have to be a family member. A voice from the church family back home can make a world of difference to the college student or military personnel who may be thousands of miles away. When a phone call needs a little extra emphasis, the written letter and card can add that little extra bit of love.

With transportation available, other possibilities for service open up. The Slow-Go can be a part of local mission projects. It might even be that products made at home can then be delivered on a local basis, or become part of a major project sent elsewhere. Visitation to those who cannot get out is a proven blessing to all.

Leadership can be provided in local Bible study, mission action, or community focused groups. The church office may sometimes needs someone to handle reception or phone calls for a brief time. A Slow-Go can offer past experience and a love of service at such a time when a volunteer is needed.

As I have learned from experience, an older person can learn to appreciate instead of fear the digital age. Social media is a blessing when used appropriately. A Slow-Go can learn how to manage web sites, facebook and similar social media outlets, and through them communicate with the world either personally or in the name of the congregation. Help a Slow-Go individual learn the new tricks of our century and you will give them reason to face each day with a smile on their face.

A Little Patience, Please

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.