I work just a block from a set of senior apartments. Because of this, I see elderly people heading in and out of the complex, catching the bus, walking their dogs, sitting in the front lobby as I zoom by.
The other day was one of those days. I was walking from work and passed a rather elderly woman, using a walker. She must have been in her eighties, and honestly she looked tired and a bit crouched over as she carefully made her way up the street.
I passed her hurredly on my way to an appointment. Yet, the sight of her filled me with joy.
I felt joyful for this woman, that she was still living well into older age. Joyful for her family and friends who have not yet suffered the loss of her from their lives. Joyful for the fact that she was still walking, feeling the sunshine outdoors, and doing so independently.
I don’t know if this woman feels joy at all that she has. While I felt a temptation to run up and say all of this to her, I of course kept these thoughts to myself. All she saw was a smile from me. But I hope knows all of this. I hope she feels her own joy.
Not quite the plan 
March 15, 2015 at 11:49 pm
Your thoughts about this encounter made my day; thank you.
March 16, 2015 at 12:48 am
What a beautiful post. Thank you for stopping by my blog and leaving a “Like”. I am in my mid 70;s and thankful I can not only care for myself but take care of my hubby who is 87 and would be doing great if not for dementia. Big hugs and I wish you and your mom the very best.
March 16, 2015 at 1:56 am
I can totally relate to this post
March 16, 2015 at 3:40 pm
Caused me to think… We could all miss out on joy if we compare where we are to better times when we were more able. But knowing that things could be much worse seems to be the key to gratitude and joy. And no matter the situation, things could always get worse… That doesn’t sound very cheery but I’m just thinking our perspective makes all the difference. Joy is there if we look for it.
March 17, 2015 at 3:29 am
Thank you my dear for your sweet thoughts