Picture by Josephine Wall

* * *

I recently became a volunteer in my
community and I visit an 83 year old
lady every Friday.I feel so much
richer for the experience and so
happy that I have made a difference
to Merle's life, but on the other
hand she is now a wonderful part
of my life.I plan to do more
voluntary work this year as it
so very rewarding and inspiring.
I wrote this for all the lonely
old people who very rarely get
to see anyone during the course
of their day.

* * *

I may be old but I'm still living
My heart still beats each day
'tho time has aged my body
There's still much I have to say

Life for me can be quite lonely
I spend most days by myself
I often feel like an ornament
Collecting dust upon a shelf

'tho I'm old I'm still important
I need love and tender care
Nowadays I don't get out much
Most days I spend here in my chair

I don't see that many people
But I still crave some company
'tho my sight is not the best
I am still able to see

I am of value to society
I like to share my point of view
So please treat me with respect
And I will do the same with you

* * *

"The most emotionally healthy people
in our society are able to put
themselves into other people's shoes,
know how someone else is feeling
and care about that.
This capacity extends beyond
sexual and family intimacy.
It creates a genuine feeling
that can extend, eventually,
to all of humankind"