My dad will turn 77 this year. Over the past couple of years since my mom died I have learned some valuable lessons
1. Forgive. Our parents were only doing what they thought was right at the time.
2. Forgetfulness - As time goes on they will forget some things but don't remind them of it or they will get really pissy.
3. Farts - as you get older you fart a lot. Including the walking farts. Fact of life.
4. Patience - You have to gain it as they lose it. Patience is definetly a virtue.
5. Memories - This is the time that you need to put their memories to paper. When they talk, listen and then write it down. Once they are gone it could be lost forever.
6. Medical problems - Everything is genetic despite what the Drs. tell you.
7. Love - Your parents do love you even though they may not show it all the time. You need to show that you love them because you never know when it could be the last time you tell them.
8. Understanding - Make sure that you are all in agreement on what their final wishes are. Even though you don't want them to go, you don't want them to come back and haunt you.
9. Laughter - Sometimes in bad situations laughter is a good thing. It can diffuse hostility and make things all better. Even if you have to be the one to make a fool of yourself
10. Rememberance - Take the time to remember all the little things that you did with your parents. The good, bad and ugly. It can make things easier in the end.
Kellie
10 things I have learned from my parents getting older
February 22nd, 2008 at 02:50 am
February 22nd, 2008 at 12:35 pm 1203683737
February 22nd, 2008 at 01:20 pm 1203686426
good one! i am late 30s and my mom just retired (60) and my grandparents will be coming for an extended visit from CA. I've learned some of these things already...
February 22nd, 2008 at 05:32 pm 1203701540