At 90, my maternal grandmother was still visiting the old dears at the carehome, though many of them were 25 years younger than her.
In their 70s, my parents still volunteer in the church, presiding over services and parish admin.
My mother now follows in her mother’s footsteps, visiting the old people’s home weekly.
And our next-door neighbour, now in his late 90s, still throws himself into voluntary work, despite ailing health.
This is the life of service, giving of their time to the service of others.
Today, after hearing of his intensely busy schedule, I jokingly said to a friend, “It must soon be time to take early retirement.”
But to my jest, he replied, “No such thing!” For him, work is service: to his family and community.
“We are blessed to have jobs with which we can support and help others.”
Very true. But of course, support is not only with money but also with time.
The pensioners who continue to volunteer through retirement are exemplars of those generous with time.
Sometimes, I’d like to persuade my brethren to slow down a bit. Invest in time, as much as the pursuit of wealth.
Service is of many kinds. Recall that even a smile — or a kind word to a stranger in need — may be charity.
Last modified: 8 March 2024
