Giving it back to the Mother
I hit Costco midday this afternoon, bravery in full force, amidst a packed megastore of seniors. I understand the stress of full season in Florida, and though I despite the erratic drivers as much as the next one, I am realizing just how lovable these grandmas and grandpas can be. I left my outing with a full heart and a happy outlook, while I watched the insensitivity and impatience of so many around me.
Our demographic in Sarasota wellness retail is predominately over 65. Yet I continue to be surprised just how sweet these seasoned vets can be. How warm their smiles are and how strong their gratitude for helping them is. How often they come in for a hug of appreciation. How many remember our names, toss around witty banter, ask thoughtful questions about our well being. The years of feeling snap judged by seniors for being a edgy, tattooed, tarot-pulling 30-something are long over. Most seniors I meet now compliment the “beautiful garden” on my arm or visibly appreciate my smile back.
Today was no exception. I was in full positivity — with intention — carefully letting a gentleman in a walker cross, or a sweet lady push her cart in front of mine. No rush, no hurry, no urgency. Allowance. Patience. Kindness. A few traded jokes about the chaos inside, others rocking their independence solo with their sparkling shoes or eccentric accessories. I loved my grandmother Oma and her life partner, Don, for this same reason while they were alive. They wore what they wanted, how they wanted, with flair. And though I realize many difficult seniors (and difficult humans of all ages exist), they taught me just how warm and compassionate one could be as they aged.
Maybe the magical Yin Yoga prior was what allowed me to be so tolerant today. But more than anything, it is my general curiosity and appreciation for our elders that I think creates more love and acceptance. I begin to wonder what their earlier days were like or how they might struggle currently. What was their career decades before? What health battles are they fighting? Does their family visit? Is a Costco trip the most socializing they will get this week? Are they able to enjoy hobbies, passions, interests? What is the best part of their day? What is their favorite guilty pleasure?
We learn to love our parents and grandparents unconditionally but often fail to love those we do not know with the same compassion. If there is one lesson to take home from the snowbirds and older local residents, it should be to open our hearts to how much sweetness they contain deep down. Just like each of us. Giving it back to the mothers, fathers and those who might not be either… the same way we treasure our Mother Earth. This life is one full circle and what goes around most certainly comes around.
“Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been.” — David Bowie
