New Digs…at 89!

After 30 some peaceful years in my unique pad at Tecumseh, with the unparalleled view of the North Shore mountains,my poor old body finally couldn’t face the daily task of getting to the Chapel and the dining room at the Crescent.  I dubbed my daily journey, on my scooter, rain, snow or shine, my “mogul run“, but  I never won a medal!  The time had come to make the move to an  Assisted Living facility.

The move was a challenge, but with the help of friends, I packed up years of memories, carvings, pictures and poetry, and in record time ” landed on my feet”. I had many misgivings of leaving my community, with it’s ups and downs, and moving to Honoria Conway, an assisted living facility.  It was a leap of faith, but as the Gospel says “I received 100 fold”. Where I thought I would be  lonely, I found myself surrounded by a wonderful staff, and a community of suffering seniors, men and women, from many faiths and walks of life,who are extremely welcoming.

It is years since I have known such peace and serenity, and a sense of independence. Now I am in charge of my own life, and it is up to me totally, to face this new life which challenges me to live, without words, the faith I have always preached.  I was never so conscious of how words ” fall glibly off the tongue”. But what a far greater challenge it is to be what others in this community expect of “Father Larry”.  No time for feeling sorry, or playing the victim role, because the person next to me may be facing far greater challenges, like the humble little lady across the table from me with the constant  smile, who faces dialysis treatment three days a week.

There is also such a sense of security for us old folks, as there is a nurse on call, day and night.  Simply press the “Life line” that we all wear, and help is there.

And to to it all off, the meals are great,…and served! So for me,in my twilight years, peace and serenity.

And no more mogul runs!

Praise the Lord!

Larry

By Larry Mackey, OMI

Praise the Lordi   Larry