A few decades ago, a person celebrating his 100th birthday was rare. Nowadays, NBC’s Willard Scott announces an ever-growing list of centenarians. The announcements are routine and are mingled with couples observing their 65th wedding anniversary.
The National Center for Health Statistics reports that life expectancy at birth increased dramatically over the past century in the United States — from 49.2 years (the average for 1900-1902) to 77.5 years in 2003, the most recent year for which official data have been released by the Centers for Disease Control. Baby Boomers, those born after World War II can expect to live nearly 50% longer than their parents. Some studies indicate that the life expectancy may be even higher.
Many people are now living 25 or more years after completing their first vocation. The question that comes to mind is, “How will we use those added years?” Will we squander the time with a “this-is-my-time-to-be-served” attitude? Is there any long-term satisfaction to be found in attending events segregated by age? While enjoyable, seniors’ luncheons, field trips reminiscent of junior high group and other activities may wear thin in time.
I propose the following before we allow a growing segment of our population to slip into a breathing without living mode, into a hedonistic egocentric existence. The church in the US may create forums for discussion and allow those completing their first vocation to ask –
• What is my responsibility for using the time once allocated to my wage-earning vocation? What is a Biblical stewardship of life?
• What skills and knowledge do I have which I ought to share with the next generation? In my opinion, pastors and church leaders are responsible for learning the strengths of the retiring generation and to be poised to make use of everyone’s gifts, skills, calling and life experience.
After answering the “what” questions, the “how” questions naturally follow.
• How do bankers, plumbers, personnel managers, lawyers, electricians, medical professionals, carpenters, and a myriad of other experts apply themselves to advance the Kingdom of God in a concerted, planned manner?
• What needs in the community can be met by the generation we are discussing? Are opportunities being overlooked because we don’t have financial resources? Then, “employ” those who thrive on appreciation, and appreciate being useful!
Our experiences have been rich! Alas, many of those who taught us about the proper way to spend end-of-life years have passed away or are now in poor health. But, Fannie, Mabel, Jeannie, Minnie, and others gave several years worth of Thursdays to helping Pat get Growing Garden Preschool up and running. Ralph, Bud and Bert were invaluable “sidekicks” in attempting and completing some tasks from which all others ran away.
Our total financial expenditure for these who have taught us and challenged us has been next to nothing. An occasional meal, a card and bouquet of flowers, a framed photo and many thank you notes were met with, “You didn’t need to do that Otto!” I cannot imagine my life without those whom I have mentioned by name, and many others.
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