The family unit is basic to the evolution of man. In ancient times the man was the provider, and, when necessary, the defender. Women bore and cared for the children. They maintained the hearth. As the children grew they assumed responsibilities commensurate with their age. Older children married and established their own families, traditionally retaining the familial connection in which they were raised.
Families grew into tribes and tribes became villages. Each member understanding that they retained an obligation to the community. During our nation’s wars men and women responded, volunteering to do their part, risking their lives, millions at a time.
But in today’s nuclear age, too many of us have lost that sense of mutual responsibility. Let others assume the burden, they assert. I’m too busy. Or, for the elderly…I’m retired, I’m too old. I did my part when I was younger. This is “my” time. Younger people may, in fact, have an excuse. Supporting a family is more than a full time job. Building a career isn’t an eight-hour day.
So, where do we find that expertise to support the increasing need of today’s urban societies? The only place it exists…Seniors…that vast pool of the previous generation who forged ‘today’ with their efforts and now sit on the sidelines.
Too many seniors retreat to the cloistered protection of safe surroundings, opting for a more sedentary life of comfort, ignoring the fact that they had acquired a plethora of skills during their lifetime that might still be useful and, with this choice, they fade into the sunset.
An absence of purpose is a personal loss as well as a loss of society. Seniors would live longer, and more satisfying, lives if they continued to have a responsibility, a reason to get up each morning. It might be an interruption to their comfort but it would also be an enormous gain in knowing their lives are still worthwhile. I exclude those with serious health issues or spousal obligations but I urge those who can, to consider doing something.
Think homelessness…think education…think political action…think libraries, hospitals, child care. Think what you can still contribute and trade one less mahjong or bridge game, one less pickle ball match or lunch with friends for a morning or afternoon of ‘giving back.’
The AmeriCorps RSVP program at L.A. Works is just one example of a central place for seniors to find worthwhile ways to give back through nonprofit programs and partnerships all over Los Angeles. Their programs include K-12 Mentoring and Tutoring, career readiness and job skills, project leading, and fostering social connections. Churches, temples and mosques all have needs. Other programs connect you with animal shelters and hospitals…programs to support the disabled and disadvantaged, troubled youths…the need is limitless.
Make a statement…I am not too old. I have not given up caring about others. My life still has purpose!