Refresh

Refresh

By

Brian O’Neill

            There are moments in life that are easily remembered or never forgotten, it depends on how you want to dress that statement up, almost like dressing up a turkey for Thanksgiving.

            Yesterday, while giving back to those who served before me, I was taken back in time with stories of simple yet tough times. Their words reminded me that, what is seen and heard through the eyes and ears of the elderly is different from my own. They have seen more change over time and have grown to accept things in a more humbling way than I have chosen to my past few years. Their smiles, kind words, and a few stories between us, made for some good laughs. One man that I wheeled around was almost blind, though he had vision until the turn of the century. He asked me to describe all that I saw. I was thankful that I was able to do so in such a “colorful” manner, which had him laughing and smiling quite a bit. He was a bit of a character himself.

            Throughout the day, I listened as they commented on the sounds they heard from the multiple of performances put on by neighboring schools and community organizations. My favorite was, “ I want a hippopotamus for Christmas…” I danced, snacked on cookies and gave some people a different take on life, as they had given to me.

            Towards the end of the day, one of the many Senior Centers that were passing through and I recognized some familiar faces. I had worked with the elderly for two years prior to enrolling at BSU. I went up to a few of them and led them into who I was, showing the tattoos helped, along with the smile that they said they missed. I hadn’t seen these folks in over four years yet, I was remembered, hugged, and kissed. I was told that I needed to visit as well as someone we new was “feisty as ever”. I’m still wearing that smile.

            I went out yesterday with good intentions in my heart. I needed this. I didn’t expect to be affected so much by the ones I thought I was helping. They helped me. I have though about giving back for a while but something always came up. I have thought about visiting my old friends but something always came up. As I thought about the events that transpired yesterday, something came up. I found my refresh button, which I am in great need of lately and I am thankful for that.