FEISTY

“Jessica”, who will be ninety-nine in six months, lives out in the country with four generations of family members.  The moment we walked into Jessica’s home, we were greeted by two dogs and several family members.  We walked upstairs to Jessica’s bedroom and found her sitting in her recliner. 

The moment we met her, she started to share life stories.  Jessica was proud of her life as she has always been able to do life her way.  She has three children who all live nearby and are very involved and supportive.  Jessica has been independent until a few months ago after a fall.  She has become weaker and now needing a walker to ambulate.  When she is using her walker, a family member needs to be nearby.  Jessica has fallen, without injury, several times recently. 

Jessica is very stubborn and, with an amazingly gruff voice, will tell you how she can manage any of her needs.  Jessica spoke about working as a store greeter until she was ninety-five.  She said she was fired because of her age.  

Jessica’s speech was harsh and strong, but one could see her caring heart in spite of her wanting to hide it.  How she phrased things was so darling that it would make me laugh.  She got the biggest kick out of me laughing as she would then laugh herself.  

I so believe that one of the hardest things for anyone is to lose their independence.  Jessica is a prime example that age does not factor into it.  When it happens, it is challenging for most of us.  Good luck Jessica.  May you continue to safely travel your way.

FEISTY

 

She is ninety-eight and a half years old.

She has always loved to be in charge.

Her health problems have been minimal

allowing her to live a full and active life.

 

She now has lung and heart problems,

which she prefers to totally downplay.

She lives with numerous family members,

who all struggle with her fighting for control.

 

When I asked her, “What is the secret to a long life?”

She abruptly stated, with a deep, gruff voice,

“There’s no secret about it at all.

               It just happens.”

 

I then asked her about any spiritual beliefs.

Again, sharply, with her crusty voice,

“I went to church once or twice.

When we leave here, there is nothing more!”

 

She spoke joyfully about her work history.

She was a greeter at a local department store.

“I was working there until I was ninety-five.

Then they fired me because of my age!”

 

She so clearly knows what she wants.

She will express it to anyone around.

Her feisty personality has no barriers,

as she works so hard to remain in control.

 

She softly embraced my heart and soul.

She worked so hard to be tough and in charge,

but really all she wanted was to simply

and understandably live her life precisely,

                just her way.