How often I have mocked the phrase “Golden Years”, wondering where the sparkle might be hidden in these years that both advance and decline. We add years but the enjoyment of the moments can slip as the body dulls, chipping away at those dependable responses.
Recently, I reread a birthday letter sent to my husband as he celebrated his 74th birthday. Our oldest grandchild wrote from a heart mature beyond his years.
A daughter-in-law gave Bob a Christmas note that was a tribute to his loving interaction with all of the step-grandchildren. It, too, was very beautiful.
Out of state family have been with us since December 19, filling the house beyond capacity. It has been wonderful, though I must admit that some meals have become a choice between creamy or chunky. Grandchildren excitedly hoped for snow and are just as excitedly watching for melt. New bikes and scooters sit unused even though the adults have shoveled each day.
As I look at my adult children and at their children, I have new respect and no question about that Gold in the Golden Years. From my oldest son to my youngest grandson my life is filled with the most wonderful people…people that define family in the best of meanings. Courage to face unforseen challenges and to make choices that rock security. Dedication and determination to get life handled. Loving interaction with one another. Acceptance of faults and touting of virtues in one another. Family, baggage and all, providing all the Gold that any life could need.