I wasn’t prepared for how Dolly Parton’s death would affect me. Perhaps it was because we were both Appalachian girls, born just a little over a year apart. It could also be related to the story I wrote before she passed away. Whatever the reason, her death made me stop and reflect on something most of us tend to avoid: one day, our own stories will come to an end.
What will we leave behind?
When I pass a mirror or see a recent photo of myself, the image shocks me because I don't feel that old on the inside! That said, I don't mind being my age because I keep growing and learning.
Yes, my right knee makes it difficult to put on my socks, but once I manage to do that, I'm ready to go. I try to avoid the cursed recliner
because sitting in that thing too long makes everything ache.
Purpose gives life meaning
My father experienced circulation problems in his legs during the last years of his life, but at 85, I know he entered heaven still young at heart. I'm not sure where it began with the Walker family, but they are relentless in their pursuits until they are beneath the ground.
Despite his difficulty walking, Dad would take his Windex bottle and paper towels to the parking lot of his senior citizens' community and wash everyone's car windows. He believed that as long as he was breathing, he had a purpose and something to contribute. Each day, he left behind a small act of kindness for someone.
My cousin Bob still practices law, complains about computer work and checks on his cows at his farm. He doesn’t stop his adventurous spirit until the sun sets. Bob is seven years older than I am!
Sitting idle and staring at the walls will age you faster than passing years ever could. We need to keep learning and stay curious. Find a reason to get up each morning and be grateful for another day, even if it means using BENGAY to ease the aches.
Faith that deepens with age
I know more about life today than I did 50 years ago. And I value that insight. I understand broken hearts will not kill you if you just take the time to heal. None of us can make someone love us, but instead, we can appreciate any devotion that comes our way. One thing about being broken is the compassion you gain for others who are also broken.
God is like a best friend. When we feel overwhelmed by worry and uncertainty, He calms the storm within us. I wasn't sure I believed that when I was younger, but I do now. The friendship I have with the Lord costs nothing, yet I cannot imagine living without it.
The stories and treasures we inherit
Family stories hold more value than any book you can purchase. The legacies left by those who came before us can only be discovered if we are willing to seek them out. These stories are extremely important for the generations that follow us.
Years ago, I wondered why my grandmother held onto certain items. Today, her old tea pitcher sits proudly in the hutch that my mom left me. Every time I look at them, sweet memories fill my heart, and I cherish each one.
"Lynn, the kids don't want any of this stuff you have saved," My husband tells me. My answer is always the same: "Perhaps they just aren't old enough yet!" The shiny new items we once viewed as treasures have faded over time, while what we once considered junk has now become treasures.
What truly lasts
More important than the things we accumulate, whether new or old, is the fact that the most valuable possession we own is ourselves. What we choose to do with our days will ultimately determine our worth.
God grants us the ability to grow each day, not in size but in wisdom. What do we do with it? Well, a recliner doesn't help. Becoming grumpy, rude and stagnant is not God's idea of using knowledge wisely.
Life passes quickly. Days grow shorter, and knees become sore, but what we carry in our hearts gives our lives meaning until the end. What will our story be?
We all ponder our legacy. It may not be something we build. Maybe it is something we leave scattered behind us without ever knowing who will pick it up.
How we will be remembered
Everyone remembers my dad for his Windex bottle, his laughter, his funny stories and his heartfelt tears. While Cousin Bob is an accomplished attorney, I believe he will be remembered more as a spiritual adventurer – a true Walker.
No matter our age or level of success, let's strive to be the best versions of ourselves.
Don't sit down; stand tall and be meaningful.
Lynn Walker Gendusa is a writer in Georgia and the author of the book "Southern Comfort." She is originally from Monterey, Tennessee.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Don't sit down yet. Aging, purpose and the legacy we leave | Opinion
