Everyone on this earth has a purpose. Something that they are meant to do. Years ago, I found mine. A passion rose up in me, so intense that it consumed me. Then, I lost sight of it. Life has a way of doing that.
Yesterday, to my great excitement I realized that it wasn’t gone. Suddenly, it came rushing back to me. I went grocery shopping and the store was filled with elderly men and women. By the large number of them, I assume Wednesdays are ‘elder day’ at the grocery store. I was in love. From as far back as I can remember I have had a deep respect and concern for the elderly. To speak with them, fills me with an overwhelming sense of joy.
My heart melts around them. Not only do I find them to be precious, but more importantly they have lived and seen a time that I’ll never see. For decades, they have watched and been a part of this ever changing world. They have experienced joy, pain, heartbreak and laughter. They have worked and raised families. Some have been in wars, others in fascinating careers. Some have been housewives and some were farmers. No matter what their background may be, there is something valuable to be learned from each of them.
About 12 years ago, I was given the honor to work in an assisted living facility, before transferring to an Alzheimer’s unit. If you’d like, you can read about that wonderful experience here.
My dream is to be with them again. Not to work for money, but for love. They have spent their life giving to us. In their final days, I want to give back. I want to give them someone to talk to, a friend. A friend to laugh with, to lean on, to share their stories with and to get a hug when they need one.
I dearly miss those people from 12 years ago. They will always hold a special place in my heart. That was the only job I ever arrived at hours early and stayed hours late, just because. It was my second home. I loved it there. Without a doubt, I know that’s my purpose. To serve the elderly, just as they have served us. Whether it be a housing facility or my neighbors, I must fulfill my purpose.
It’s been said, “Find a job you love and you‘ll never work a day in your life”.
Me - Who am I? 
My daughter worked in an Alzheimer’s/Dementia care facility while in college. She loved it so much that she has decided to return to school, become an RN and return to that line of work. She has a dream to run a facility the way she sees as more dignified….the way the deserve. Good for you! I’m glad you have revisited one of the things you truly receive joy from.
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What a wonderful dream to have! I hope that one day she will accomplish it. There are so many elderly and so few people who desire to take care of them. I always wanted to be an RN. That has been my dream since as far back as I can remember. I don’t know if that will happen now, but I will be happy however I can help them.
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