Through this weekly column I try to provide a little humor, invoke a few memories, suggest a couple activities to enjoy and offer some ideas to ponder. But more importantly, I hope to encourage you to keep exploring, keep seeking adventure and not just accept what appears to be – no matter your situation.
Many of us don’t have a clue what to expect during this third chapter of our lives: the emotional and physical challenges that lie ahead. Many of those who do know tell me, “It ain’t easy!” But we are all given this gift of life, some longer than others, in this land of so many opportunities for a purpose. And this gift is to be embraced and not ignored. I am optimistic because I see so many folks who still have the energy and passion to dance, to read, to share ideas and most importantly to visit and care for one another – to nurture those relationships that mean so much.
So keep up the good fight. Stay strong. Keep looking. But if you can’t see, use your ears; if you can’t hear, raise your arms and if you can’t move, open your heart to all the possibilities.
Are you up for a win-win-win opportunity? At the Center on Saturday March 13th from 10:00 – 3:00 PM, there will be a “Prescription Drug Turn-in Event” sponsored and organized by “Youth Think” – a local grass roots organization partnering with youth to prevent the use of alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and other harmful behaviors. Bring to the collection expired or unwanted prescription medications, over the counter medicines that are no longer used and any unknown medications. By doing so, you will keep them out of the soil and groundwater – which could happen if flushed down the toilet, keep them from those who would abuse the use of prescription drugs, and reduce the risk of you or a loved one accidentally taking the wrong prescription. By helping your environment, your community and yourself, it is definitely a win-win-win. For more information contact Debby Jones at 541-506-2673.
It has been said, “There ARE short-cuts to happiness, and dancing is one of them”. So you don’t have to go to the top of the mountain, just show up every Tuesday night at the Center. On the 9th you can dance to the sounds of the Notecrackers who will be playing favorites from the 20s through the 60s — vintage music that will bring back memories. And tonight the popular two-man country duo the Rhythm Ramblers will be playing for your dancing and listening pleasure. And how much does all of this happiness cost? Zero, zip, zilch, but donations are kindly accepted. The Center starts shaking at 7:00. And as Dave Barry says, “Nobody cares if you can’t dance well. Just get up and dance.”
The Center’s 11:00 AM Tuesday lecture on March 9th will feature Carola Stepper, Licensed Acupuncturist, explaining and demonstrating the benefits of “Acupressure”. Carola has presented several times at the Center and you can expect her presentations to be informative and “hands-on”.
Last week’s ‘Remember When” question caught a few off guard with the reference to the “forgotten miracle”. It was 1960 when the US won the Gold to Canada’s Silver – a reversal of the outcome 50 years later. And the location was Squaw Valley in California. Correct answers were sent in by John Layson and Joann Scott, who were both just old enough to watch the Olympics on TV.
Many of my peers learned the latest dance steps (the Monkey, Watusi and the Twist) from the “regulars” on this television show – originally taped in Philadelphia – which featured teenagers dancing to hits from the top 40 introduced by a clean-cut 26 year old (it was 1956). What was the name of the show? Call 541-296-4788, or email mcseniorcenter@gmail.com. The first name drawn from all the correct answers will win a free Saturday Breakfast on March 20th.
Well, that is another seed in the ground. Until we meet again, keep your chin up but don’t forget to duck.
“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming…Wow! What a ride!” Melvin Trotter 1924-2006