“From what we get, we can make a living; what we give, however, makes a life.” –Arthur Ashe
We watched Arthur Ashe play tennis and admired his skill and his poise as well as the gentlemanly way he behaved on the court and off. I wonder how many young people were influenced by this talented man.
If I could give a word of advice to young people today, I'd suggest they volunteer their time to work with older people. Go to retirement centers and give whatever talent you have for the well-being of others. The men and women considered seniors are rich sources of stories and history of a time so different from today's world. Give some time and take away inspiration, common sense advice, and beautiful tales of life you would never find anywhere else.
So true, Glenda.Retirement centers, Senior Centers, Assisted Living centers, and many more places where seniors gather are perfect places for readings of poetry or short stories. Also, young people with talent...musical ability, singing, are greeted with big smiles and genuine applause before and after. My son sang and played piano and my neighbor's children played violins. I took them to a favorite nursing home and the kids got as much out of the visits as the seniors they serenaded. You get what you give.
ReplyDeleteThanks for this reminder.
Nancy Purcell