Our visit to Sunrise Assisted Living could not have come at a better time. Within the last four years, I have come to terms with the mortality of the elders in my life. My parents are in their mid-fifties; with every phone call or visit, my mother complains that she can't read things without her glasses, and my father mentions his developing arthritis. I have vivid memories of my grandparents' graceful statures. They now walk hunched over walking canes. My great aunts' and uncles' true ages are more evident every time I see them. My great-grandmother, Big Mama, died two years ago at the age of 87, falling prey to diabetes.
             In spite of my elders' physical diminishment, I have always found their alertness and activism remarkable. My father has always been physically active; playing baseball or softball - and now golf – every opportunity he can. He is extremely involved at his church; just last week he drove the youth group and their chaperones to a weekend retreat. My mother – a teacher – hangs out with her friends, goes dancing, and also is extremely involved as a trustee at her church. My grandparents, and great aunts and uncles maintain active social lives in their communities and their churches. Big Mama – the most colorful of my family members – was a ball of energy up until her death; literally playing with her three year old great-great-grandson just minutes before she died!
             Just last month, my grandfather, 82 years old, had intestinal surgery. Knowing that the body tends to heal slower the older we get, I was stressing myself out about his recovery. Last week, however, I spoke with my younger cousin who lives near Granddad, and she reported that he is getting around and about, and recovering well. He demanded that my aunt take him to the community high school football game. He never could stand sitting around for too long.
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