Don’t Let the Seniors Be Forgotten

I drive the senior bus at my church. I consider it a much greater blessing for me than them although they would probably argue that knowing them. We’ve created a community onto itself on Sundays, and I am sure each week we’re one step higher towards heaven.

My life was very uneven before coming back to church some 20 years ago. I’ll just admit that I had fallen away. When I got to church, I found out that it would be a good idea to get a ministry. I fumbled around until my church bought a new Ford van and asked me to drive on Sundays for the seniors.

Having grown close to my grandparents before they died, I had an inkling of what was ahead of me. Now after many years, I know how little I know about this population. It’s been said that Western Society does not respect the experience of its senior citizens. This is most certainly true. Many if not all of my riders would not be in church on Sundays if it wasn’t for the bus. Their children either don’t live nearby or don’t have time or have some other reason for not being there. These folks, although fiercely independent for most of their lives, must now rely on someone.

It’s a shame society doesn’t rely on them. The sage wisdom and experience with life that I encounter every Sunday has got me dependent. I’d feel like a limb was cut off if I was separated from this group. Not only have I found acceptance, I’ve found a ministry that holds deep meaning. Lately, I’ve been sharing my poetry with them. I’ve cornered an audience. Futhermore, an audience that will share their honest feelings. Old people just have no reason to lie.

Most of the time we just ride quietly down the freeway to and from church, but in my heart, I know the love we hold for one another. They’re not Confucius or Socrates but I sometimes think that collectively they hold even more wisdom. It takes time to get to know them, but in return, I’ve found they have a lot of time to share back. Do yourself a favor, get involved with the seniors.