Community May Mean …

Though I still struggle with stuff, some people might think of community as follows:

Paying Off a Bet

At the breakfast table, we were talking about energy efficiency. I foolishly bet that the ceilings here were 15 feet high. That seemed reasonable, but I look at things from a short person perspective. Ronald and three other people said I was wrong, so I made an official bet. Which I dutifully paid off. Cookies with frosting that spelled out I Was wrong with a large I, large W, and small w was my penance. That will teach me to not use exaggeration so freely! Humble pie is not tasty!

Planning the Next Party

With the Super Bowl coming up, of course a party with food is in the works.

Taking Evening Strolls With a Friend

Walking dogs is the perfect excuse to share a walk and conversation.

Showing Affection

One lady age 90 daily kisses the bald head of a 94 year old who she feels is like her big brother. There’s a lot of hugs when we meet at breakfast. It’s a celebration when each new day begins and we are still here! We snuggle up to stand together at the fireplace warming up from the chilly walk to the clubhouse.

Showing Compassion

Community is listening to a resident express her grief at losing her pet. Or hearing tales of sadness caused by memories of a loved one who has passed. We rejoice together when someone has good news from her doctor. ‘Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep’ seems to be the overall policy here.

Having Patience  

Hearing the same story or question repeated at each gathering is normal. Everybody has a story. Telling their stories of their past makes life today more bearable.

Teases and New Jokes

Some, like Ronald, constantly tease the girls who serve us. All their personalities are perfect for dealing with this crazy crew. And of course, he always uses any excuse to tease or tell jokes.

One guy brought deviled eggs to my Christmas party only to have them fall from my hand before I got the tray in the door. He always has a smart comment as it relates to the messes I make at the table. We all giggle with the memory. And sadly, everyone knows my two jokes and rolls their eyes like my grandkids do.

Working Together to Decorate the Clubhouse

Either by some of the ladies having a craft day or an ‘all hands on deck’ decorating spree, we get ‘er done.

Arguing

There are a few real arguments, but there is always some ribbing among the men about their favorite teams.

Learning New Things

Our frequent table mate and recent guest blogger has taught many of us to get answers from our phones to get facts on the latest subject being discussed. We look up lots of trivia about old movie stars, sport statistics, and topics we really know nothing about!

Helping 

Whether it’s helping clean up someone’s spilled tea at lunch, pouring coffee for those needing their morning fix, or picking up someone who has fallen along the way – it’s a way of life here.

Matthew 22:37-40 NKJV tells Jesus words. ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.  This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’

Many in this community seem to be following that commandment.

What does your community look like?

Blessings

Kara Beth

I put I W w on the cookie with frosting. It was a mess. I tried to put I W w on the cookie with the computer. Couldn’t.

Use your imagination.