MORE THAN A NUMBER

Deborah has a group of high school friends who get together every now and then. Their latest time together was at the memorial for an old friend. Old age is 65 or older…at least that’s what the experts say. But it’s more than that..as this group of friends proves more and more each day. There is no guide to growing old…no one secret…one truth…one little gem. But here are a few things I’ve observed that makes the ride smoother for them. They are genuinely happy and supportive of each other They are there when times are rough. They anticipate each other’s needs and how sometimes… just their friendship is enough. They enjoy each other’s company. They make each other laugh and they hold on to one another when they cry. They know instinctively whenever they need a friend…a friend will be nearby. Though life took them in different directions…when they get together…this they know: How blessed they’ve been to be around…to watch each other grow. Through all of life’s ups and downs…these friends have been aware whether it’s an up or it’s a down…their love is always there. Their Love is there to help these friends get through…one day at a time. In the poetry of their life…it’s love that is their thyme. It seems to me these old friends understand as they navigate life’s changing weather… the greatest gift they have been given…is growing old…together. Of course I’m no expert…but I like to think all of us…before we reach our final slumber will realize, like these friends do, how growing old is much more than a number.